[JCNickmom]

Hi,
I've got some questions about our qualifications, as it were. I'm visually impaired (legally blind), and I use a guide dog (yellow lab). I am very capable. I have 2 children of my own, and my oldest son has Cystic Fibrosis. So, I have experience with complex medical issues. My husband is fully sighted, and in good health. I've had some oher medical issues in the past (female issues), and I do take an anti-depressant. I started the medication after my hysterectomy. My symptoms were very mild and are fully controlled with the medication. We have a 5 bedroom house, and only 2 kids. I'm looking to foster one child at a time. Hoping for a long term placement of a little girl age 0-5. I have been visually impaired all my life, so I'm very upfront with what I can and cannot handle. I would be crushed if I was turned down! Our CW said she was willing to work with me. She said as an example, that she would not place a child that was a fire starter with me. Well, I told her that works for me b/c I wouldn't be at all comfortable with a fiire starter. I'm still nervous though. Any thoughts?

[dakotabluebaby]

Oh good luck and a big HUG.

In my agency I know there is a family with one blind parent and two families that have deaf parents.

They have proven to get some of the best foster parents and have a few times been placed with children with the same disabilities, which in the case of the deaf parents lead to the child learning sign very quickly and happily, the Birth parents had neglected to teach any communication skills.

I am so excited for you!

[CaddoRose]

I would think that you have a unique set of skills that would help you tremendously as a foster parent. From what you said about the CW, it seems like she is in agreement too. Good luck to you and let us know how things go. I'm really interested in what happens for you next.

[mrsred]

Sounds to me like you are a great candidate for FP. We all have our "disabilities". It is how we cope with them that makes the difference. When I read your post I see a woman with incredible coping skills, just what a foster parent needs.

[carlychan]

Would it be considered discriminating if you were turned down because of that? Wouldn't blindness be covered under the americans with disabilities act?

[JCNickmom]

Thanks for all the encouraging words! I'm so excited because my DH is really getting excited. At first, he was unsure. I am really beginning to think that this is meant to be!

As far as the ADA goes, yes it would be considered discrimination if they turned us down b/c of my visually impairment. So, I'm sure that would never be the stated reason. One of the hard lessons I've learned in my life is that people will find a way around ADA laws if that want to. Public access with a guide dog is a perfect example. The law clearly states that the dogs are allowed anywhere the public is allowed. We tried to stay at a hotel once and when they saw we had a guide dog, they said they had made a mistake and they were actually booked. So, there are ways to wiggle around the law if someone really wants to.

I didn't take Hurbie (my guide dog) with me to the info meeting at DFCS b/c I didn't want anyone to make any snap judgements about my abilities, or lack there of. Sometimes I can't figure people out... Do they think my 2 sons raised themselves?? )
Melissa

[workinsallimom]

It sounds like you'll be a great foster mom!! I think the cw's are looking for people just like you! By the way, I applaud you on homeschooling your boys, that's a job, been there/done that! Hope all goes well for you.


Doretha

By the way, I like your quote from Spurgeon.