Author Archives: zacharyfenell

#CPChatNow Recap- 03-15-2017

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Wednesday, March 15th, 2017 saw a well-needed #CPChatNow Twitter chat. I am co-host Zachary Fenell, here to document the chat for the history books. Or, at least recap the evening discussion for our website’s archives.

The evening began on a happy note, with some familiar faces returning following MIA status.

Some familiar names returned to the March 15th, 2017 #CPChatNow chat. Unfortunately, the joyful vibes hit some turbulence. Like the above screen shot shows Jocelyn’s appearance coincided with a rough week for her. Although Jocelyn proved not the only one.

Many seemed in-midst a tough week. Hence the reason I described the chat earlier as “well-needed.” Possessing a community to confide in remains extremely beneficial.

Rachel shares battling fatigue throughout the week..Now my response asking about a difference between CP related fatigue and everyday fatigue sparked some chatter. Specifically, whether there actually exists a difference.

#CPChatNow participants discuss the relation between fatigue and cerebral palsy.Looking to expand beyond troubles to solutions, I asked how others cheer themselves up when facing hard times.

#CPChatNow co-host Zachary Fenell wants to know how participants turn their frowns upside down.Yasmin shares activities she does to feel better.Jocelyn’s response in-part segued the conversation to another topic, friendships. More precisely how to maintain strong friendships while the years progress on. So staying friends when living in different states and starting families. You know, those adult life related issues!

Zachary asks how #CPChatNow participants successfully maintain long-time friendships.#CPChatNow regular Hannah Pike identified making time as an important task. Yasmin meanwhile spoke about trust.

Yasmin believes trust is instrumental to enjoying long lasting friendships.How about we keep the dialogue going? Answer for the week’s extend-the-conversation question “When it comes to long-time friends, how have you successfully maintained those relationships?” Reply in the “Comments” section.

Also during the night I announced our March 2017 Google Hangout date.

#CPChatNow's March 2017 Google Hangout will happen Thursday, March 30th at 8pm ET.I hope you will join us Thursday, March 30th for our March 2017 Google Hangout. With no character limits, the video chat always provides an opportunity to delve into deeper conversations. Please contact interim co-host Devin Axtman or myself with any questions about joining.

Answer this week's extend-the-conversation question in the "Comments" section. When it comes to long-time friends, how have you successfully maintained those relationships?Additionally remember to answer the week’s extend-the-conversation question.

When it comes to long-time friends, how have you successfully maintained those relationships?

Reply by commenting below.

Until tonight!

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- “How Computer Science Benefits the CP Community” Focus Chat

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Benefits computer science can bring the cerebral palsy community remained our focal point Wednesday, March 1st, 2017. Long-time #CPChatNow participant Alena Brand led us in the chat. I am co-host Zachary Fenell, finally here to recap the evening.

First, I apologize for the delay. Between a power outage and spotty Internet connection getting this recap done proved a challenge. In fact the power outage caused me to miss #CPChatNow Wednesday, March 8th for the first time since September 2014. Therefore I am looking forward to my co-host Devin Axtman‘s upcoming recap.

Anyways, enough self-revolving talk from me! Time to highlight our March 1st, 2017 chat. Oh, the many highlights too! Alena sparked great dialogue with her questions. Before diving into those however, Alena shared her credentials to lead our computer science focus chat.

Alena gives her credentials for leading a computer science orientated focus chat.To begin Alena asked us to name computer technology we use to help overcome cerebral palsy. Speech recognition software ended up a re-occurring answer. Specifically Dragon and Siri received mentions.

#CPChatNow participants share the computer technology they use to help overcome their cerebral palsy.Devin’s answer stood out against the other responses captured in the above screen shot. Although you may not necessarily think about auto correct as a disability related tool, my co-host made a valid point. Auto correct does enable you to type faster by lessening concerns over errors.

Next Alena inquired about if the non-disabled interpret the CP community’s computer technology based needs well.

Alena asks #CPChatNow "Do you feel people who don't have CP do a good job interpreting what sort of computer technology can help the disabled?"Devin responded to the question through a developer’s mindset. Indeed a successful developer understands the needs he or she seeks to meet. Additional dialogue looked at how the question could apply to occupational therapists and other special needs professionals. Sometimes their well-intentions fail to properly meet a person’s needs. Here my advice works well, “Instead of guessing, ask!”

Moving onto question three, Alena asked what improvements we want to see in computer technology which would benefit our daily activities.

Devin wants to see computer technology improve to a point where self-driving cars are both afforable and feasible. As other replies rolled in a desire for self-driving cars emerged a popular one.

In addition to self-driving cars Hannah wants to see afforable standing wheelchairs.Co-host Zachary Fenell and others also express interest in self-driving cars.Besides self-driving cars, Hannah also hopes to see affordable standing wheelchairs become more commonplace. What about you? Do you possess interest in self-driving cars? Do you want to see improvements with standing wheelchairs? Maybe another computer technology intrigues you. Add your input by answering as the extend-the-conversation question, “What computer technology improvements would you like to see that would help with daily activities?” Reply in the “Comments” section.

Going back to self-driving cars for now though, Shira raised a great point about hacking. An issue Alena echoed while bringing up other safety concerns with self-driving cars.

Alena addresses some safety concerns with self-driving cars.Continuing with an eye to the future we closed the night discussing computer technology currently in development, but which could benefit the CP community greatly in the future.

Devin has his eye on the self-tying shoe lace.If those shoes pique your curiosity, below you can watch the video Devin linked to.

This week's extend-the-conversation question asks "What computer technology improvements would you like to see that would help with daily activities?"

Respond to the extend-the-conversation question in the “Comments” section.

Wrapping up remember to answer the extend-the-conversation question.

“What computer technology improvements would you like to see that would help with daily activities?”

Answer by leaving a comment! Until next time.

-Zachary

 

#CPChatNow Recap- Maysoon Zayid Q & A

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On Wednesday, February 15th we at #CPChatNow held our monthly focus chat for February 2017, welcoming to the chat comedian and actress Maysoon Zayid. Now I am #CPChatNow co-host Zachary Fenell, here to condense the evening down into our weekly recap. Rather than concentrating on a certain topic, we used our time with Maysoon for an open Q & A session.

While I thanked her during the night, I want to again express #CPChatNow’s gratitude for Maysoon fitting us into her busy schedule. In fact Maysoon did not join us until the 9pm ET hour due to a gig in the prior hour. That enabled us to utilize our first hour to catch up on each others’ weeks. Eventful weeks they proved too!

what-is-something-eventful-about-your-weekCommunity regular Hannah Pike reminded us eventfulness can emerge from the simple things.

Hannah Pike reminds #CPChatNow that you can find joy from the simpliest items, like buying a new hat!Beyond eventful, you could also describe participants’ weeks as busy. Exciting projects occupying their schedules.

Exciting projects are keeping #CPChatNow participants well occupied.Personally, I am happy to share I published my new Rocky Balboa inspired exercise montage over the weekend. Take a look!

Come tweet me on Twitter and let me know your thoughts. Thanks for indulging my self-promotion. Shall we return to #CPChatNow business?

Upon entering the #CPChatNow dialogue, Maysoon also answered my question about exciting projects.

Maysoon Zayid will soon star in her own sitcom I Can Can.News about Maysoon Zayid’s upcoming sitcom triggered our community’s curiosity. Just like the above screen shot shows! The questions flowed in and Maysoon kept pace with her answers.

details-about-maysoons-sitcomIn I Can Can Maysoon will play a Jersey girl who dreams about being on broadway.Maysoon Zayid eyes a September release for her sitcom I Can Can.Summarizing what we learned February 15th, Maysoon Zayid will star in her own romantic comedy sitcom titled I Can Can. She plays a Jersey girl with Broadway dreams. Given a September air date, expect more details to arrive shortly. As 2017 progresses I can surely envision the show becoming a popular talking point amidst our chats. Plus I’m confident along with my co-hosts Devin Axtman and Blake Henry we will keep you apprised on new details via the #CPChatNow Facebook fan page.

Outside I Can Can talk turned to serving as a role model. Community regular Hamda explained why she considers Maysoon a role model.

Maysoon On Role Models Completed EditBy clarifying when the term “role model” bothers her, Maysoon brought up a key point. One I say we examine in-depth circa the week’s extend-the-conversation question. Answer “Who is your role model? Why?” Leave your reply in the “Comments” section.

Honestly I am guessing identity will stand a common reason for choosing role models. Seeing others similar to you rise above unfair misconceptions and stereotypes empowers. Regarding misconceptions, Maysoon named what she deems the biggest misconceptions Americans hold about Muslims.

Maysoon names the biggest misconceptions Americans possess about Muslims.Dispelling misconceptions albeit about Muslims or another group leads to a better world. Understanding different cultures improves ability to treat others respectfully. Such a code of conduct we should all strive for!

To wrap up let me one last time thank Maysoon Zayid for joining us Wednesday, February 15th, 2017. Tonight interim co-host Devin Axtman and I will announce our March 2017 focus chat. I hope you can stop in. The fun begins at 8pm ET. Until then remember to answer the extend-the-conversation question.

Keep the conversation going! Answer for this week's extend-the-conversation question "Who is your role model? Why?"“Who is your role model? Why?”

Respond in the “Comments” section below. Tweet you later.

Sincerely,

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- 02-01-2017

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Various topics arose Wednesday, February 1st, 2017 during our weekly cerebral palsy Twitter chat #CPChatNow. I am co-host Zachary Fenell, ready to summarize everything up into a neat, easy to read recap. Hopefully you enjoyed last week’s recap, compiled by interim co-host Devin Axtman.

Devin continues to fill in admirably for co-host Blake Henry while Blake studies abroad. Tweets from Blake with the hashtag CPChatNow indicates our community remains on his mind. Although due to the time difference, said tweets come outside chat hours. So I thought to begin our February 1st chat by retweeting Blake’s latest update.

Zachary retweets Blake's latest update from Spain.Early on in the chat I also announced the date for our February Google Hangout. This led to some jokes.

#CPChatNow's February 2017 Google Hangout will be Thursday, February 16th.To fully appreciate the echoing humor, you needed to attend our January Google Hangout. Make sure you find your place on the Hangout invite list. Send a DM to Devin and/or me to request receiving the Hangout link Thursday, February 16th.

Usually around 8:30pm ET participants multi-task, contributing to our conversation and watching Speechless. ABC airing a Speechless rerun caused disappointment.

Hannah is bummed to find Speechless a repeat.My interim co-host Devin questioned the broadcasting strategy where you air reruns in consecutive weeks.

Devin thinks airing reruns multiple weeks in a row could cause confusion to viewers.Community regular Hannah pointed out such a strategy seeks to garner a show new viewers. Still, she agreed with Devin.

Meanwhile participant Jen Coventry, after a long day, arrived late to the chat. A fall on ice landed her in the ER. The situation left me referencing a comment I made two weeks ago. I joked we should all move to Tucson, Arizona and establish a snow-free society.

Snow can be very dangerous to the CP community. Jen's fall offers one example.Injuries soon became the dialogue’s concentration.

#CPChatNow participants recall the worst injuries they have endured.Jen's worst injury was an infection.Time to keep the conversation going. Answer for the week’s extend-the-conversation question “What is the worst injury you’ve had to endure?” Respond in the “Comments” section.

Another noteworthy topic that emerged during the February 1st chat involved startle reflex.

Jen Coventry didn't always know startle reflex was connected to cerebral palsy.Both Jens’ comments illustrates how knowing others with cerebral palsy aids in better understanding your own cerebral palsy. Perhaps you will learn something regarding your cerebral palsy tonight. Join us on Twitter starting at 8pm ET. First though, remember to answer the extend-the-conversation question.

This week's extend-the-conversation question asks "What is the worst injury you've had to endure?" “What is the worst injury you’ve had to endure?”

Leave your reply in the “Comments” section below.

Tweet you later,

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- 01-18-2017

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Cerebral palsy’s presence during daily activities proved a common theme throughout our live Twitter chat Wednesday, January 18th, 2017. I am #CPChatNow co-host Zachary Fenell and you know why I am here. To recap our latest Twitter chat!

Every week #CPChatNow seems to gain new or renewed interest. Amanda, a familiar face to our long-term community members, returned and sparked much dialogue. First, she asked everyone to share a highlight and struggle from the past week.

Amanda suggests everyone shares one struggle and one triumph from the past week.Some people’s struggles demonstrated the previously mentioned theme, CP’s presence during daily activities. Blemi for example called attention to the difficulties winter brings.

Blemi accomplishment is overcoming the struggle of snow and ice, not falling!Meanwhile Sarah Waltz‘s struggle dealt with CP on an emotional level. Specifically, she sought empathy.

Sarah struggles to find empathy from her teachers.Other answers remained lighthearted and provided a laugh or two. My interim co-host Devin Axtman supplied such.

#CPChatNow met interim co-host Devin spilling water on himself at work with both humor and empathy.Certain answers transcended the cerebral palsy community. My own struggle I am sure many could relate. Time management stands an issue for able-bodied and disabled alike.

Co-host Zachary shares his challenge and triumph for the week.A couple individuals shared weight loss as their weekly triumphs. That led relative newcomer Jen Coventry to seek out exercise advice.

Jennifer wants to know what you do to exercise. If you want to read the article I recommended, awesome! Checkout “Exercises To Try At Home For People With Disabilities.” Hopefully you also find the post helpful.

As the chat continued physical activity stayed a hot topic. Amanda asked opinions on requests she received to film her walk. Said dialogue turned to seeing yourself walk.

Zachary says he used to find watching himself walk on video weird.Blemi compares how she feels walking to an episode of Friends.Like someone walking, let us keep this conversation moving forward. Answer for the week’s extend-the-conversation question “Do you feel self-conscious about your walk?” Leave your response in the “Comments” section.

Overall our January 18th Twitter chat featured riveting dialogue. Looking ahead to tonight’s chat, riveting dialogue promises to become a trend. Last week I confirmed tonight our own Yasmin will lead us in a focus chat.

This month our own Yasmin will lead a focus chat on "Having a Disability and Dating/Being a Part of the LGBTQ+ Community"Personally I am eager to learn tonight. You too?! Allow me to make suggestions to help you pass the time until 8pm ET. The #CPChatNow t-shirt and winter apparel sale ends in five days.

Zachary gives a FYI about the current #CPChatNow t-shirt and winter apparel sale.Explore the sale and order your #CPChatNow gear. Proceeds go to the nonprofit Keep On Keeping On Foundation. Prior to shopping though, remember to answer the extend-the-conversation question.

"Do you feel self-conscious about your walk?" Answer to keep the conversation going!

Keep the conversation going!

“Do you feel self-conscious about your walk?”

Respond with a comment below. Finally, I wish to remind you tomorrow Thursday, January 26th we will hold our monthly Google Hangouts video chat. To inquire about receiving an invitation to the event please contact Devin Axtman or myself on Twitter by DM. Tweet you later!

Sincerely,

-Zachary

 

#CPChatNow Recap- 01-11-2017

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Meryl Streep’s Golden Globes speech and accessibility remained among popular topics discussed during #CPChatNow Wednesday, January 11th, 2017. I am co-host Zachary Fenell here with the highlights. Enjoy the following.

Shortly after our usual Wednesday evening greetings, community regular Hamda turned our attention to Meryl Streep’s Golden Globes speech. Specifically she retweeted a reaction to Streep’s speech.

discussing-golden-globes-speechLike the above screenshot shows reactions addressed the stereotype which views a person with a disability as helpless. A topic we talked about in the past both via our weekly Twitter chats and monthly Google Hangouts. Regarding the latter, interim co-host Devin announced our January 2017 Google Hangout date.

Join #CPChatNow for a video chat via Google Hangouts Thursday, January 26th starting at 8pm ET.Meanwhile I sparked much dialogue by asking a question on accessibility.

Community members of #CPChatNow share what accessibility means to them.Blemi acknowledged many physical barriers to accessibility. Others who answered addressed accessibility more generally.

more-answers-to-accessibility-questionPersonally, the different responses intrigued me. See, the topic lingered within my mind since I began participating in another disability related Twitter chat, #AXSChat.

Co-host Zachary Fenell explains why he asked about accessibility.Since I am still curious and I am the one writing today’s recap, I am making an executive decision. I declare “What does accessibility mean/look like to you?” the week’s extend-the-conversation question.

Leave your reply in the “Comments” section. Please too share across the disability population. Let us compile responses from a diverse group! The value in reaching across different disability communities emerged while I told others more about #AXSChat.

Co-host Zachary Fenell tells #CPChatNow about #AXSChat.Like Shira, I also agreed with Devin‘s comments “the disability community too often goes into our own corners.” I encourage anyone from #CPChatNow to join #AXSChat (if your schedule allows). #AXSChat takes place Tuesdays at 3pm ET. For more information visit their website, axschat.com.

In the meantime make sure you join #CPChatNow tonight at 8pm ET. We will confirm details for our January focus chat. Additionally double check you marked your calendar for #CPChatNow’s January 2017 Google Hangout Thursday, January 26th. Contact Devin or I to inquire about receiving the invite. Finally, remember to answer the week’s extend-the-conversation question.

This week's extend-the-conversation question asks "What does accessibility mean/look like to you?"“What does accessibility mean/look like to you?”

Comment below to answer. Thank you for reading the weekly recap.

Sincerely,

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- 01-04-2017

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Wednesday, January 4th, 2017! Yes, 2017! I am #CPChatNow co-host Zachary Fenell here with highlights from our first Twitter chat in the new year. Our live cerebral palsy Twitter chat happens every Wednesday, starting at 8pm ET. We began the New Year by addressing an issue which emerged to end 2016.

Co-host Zachary Fenell calls attention to an upcoming poll.The poll sought feedback on a suggestion to move #CPChatNow from Wednesday to another night. ABC’s Speechless airing during the chat provided the catalyst for the proposition.

The #CPChatNow community votes to determine if the Twitter chat should be moved to another night.Admittedly for whatever reason the poll only received three votes. Like I previously mentioned though, we also discussed the matter on Facebook and during our December Google Hangout. In our private Facebook group I posted a similar poll which experienced higher interaction. In that poll seven individuals voted. All but one recommending we keep the chat on Wednesdays. Therefore #CPChatNow will continue as a Wednesday evening tradition.

Thank you to everyone who supplied their feedback to the potential scheduling change. Like I tweeted January 4th, I thought the suggestion deserved a community decision. After all, our communal environment enables us to thrive. If you ever possess a suggestion to improve our community, please voice your opinion. You can do so publicly or privately, whatever makes you comfortable. Publicly, our private Facebook group works well. Anyone not yet in the group should click the link above and submit a request to join. Privately, please send a Twitter DM to interim co-host Devin and/or myself.

Your feedback influences our decisions. For example, I announced during the January 4th chat an extension for our t-shirt and winter apparel sale.

You now have until January 30th to order your #CPChatNow t-shirt or winter apparel.Ensure you checkout our Customcat sales page before January 30th! You will find t-shirts, long sleeve shirts, hoodies, scarves, knit hats, and more available. Proceeds benefit the non-profit Keep On Keeping On Foundation.

Now outside decision making dialogue, we enjoyed casual chatter. A question I asked regarding siblings sparked much discussion.

#CPChatNow participants discuss their relationships with their siblings.For anyone interested in reading my blog post, indulge “An Older Brother’s Wisdom.” Since my question stirred such a reaction, I thought we should keep the conversation going. Answer for the week’s extend-the-conversation question “What would you say are the defining characteristics of your sibling relationships?” Respond by commenting in the “Comments” section.

Another popular topic from January 4th naturally involved New Year resolutions. A blog post from regular Lindsay triggered the subject matter. Click the link to read, “2016 is over now, Hello 2017!”

New Year resolutions naturally arose as a topic during #CPChatNow January 4th.Remember to keep your New Year resolutions manageable. Think practical and executable. Perhaps you will resolve to “Stay better connected to the #CPChatNow community by answering the weekly extend-the-conversation question.” In case you adopt the aforementioned, get started right. Answer the following.

This week's extend-the-conversation question asks "What would you say are the defining characteristics of your sibling relationships?" “What would you say are the defining characteristics of your sibling relationships?”

Reply below. Until next time!

-Zachary

 

#CPChatNow Recap- 12-28-2016

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Wednesday, December 28th closed out our third complete year filled with Twitter chats. I am co-host Zachary Fenell, here to recap our final 2016 Twitter chat. Long-time regulars enjoyed seeing a familiar face surface once again.

A familiar face returns to #CPChatNow. Susanne‘s humor remained a missed entity from #CPChatNow. Even those on the receiving end to her sarcasm enjoyed Susanne’s presence.

#CPChatNow participants engage in friendly banter.

The warm reception Susanne received represents our community’s overall welcoming attitude. Life could keep you away. However, say the opportunity arises for you to stop in. Prepare for exclamation marks, joyous GIFs, and maybe even happy emojis! 😛

On a personal note, I am pleased to see #CPChatNow adopt such an attitude. As an original co-founder I witnessed much transition the last three-plus years. Yet we continue to remember and respect our past. For example, take the praise given Wednesday to former co-host and #CPChatNow co-founder John W. Quinn.

#CPChatNow community members praise Someone Like Me by John W. QuinnFittingly enough #CPChatNow stands at another transition point. My current co-host Blake Henry will spend the first half to 2017 studying abroad in Spain. Consequently the time difference will limit Blake’s ability to participate in the Twitter chats. Hence last week’s announcement promoting chat regular Devin to interim co-host.

Suspecting individuals might possess questions about his upcoming adventure, Blake made himself available to chat December 28th.

Blake Henry answers questions about his upcoming semester abroad.Jen has a question about Blake's Spain trip.Meanwhile I asked a question designed to encourage others to think about their 2017.

Zachary asks about 2017 New Year resolutions.Although I am obviously bias, I think my question supplies a lot to contemplate heading into the new year. So let the thoughts flow! Answer for the week’s extend-the-conversation question, “Is anyone setting New Year resolutions? If so, what are they?”

Leave your reply in the “Comments” section below.

Finally, let me take a moment to thank you. With your help #CPChatNow enjoyed a second straight banner year! Besides 11 focus chats and monthly Google Hangouts this year saw new members join the community, our website launch, and #CPChatNow apparel created. The latter you can still purchase during our “#CPChatNow T-Shirt and Winter Apparel” sale.

Profits from our shirt sales go to the non-profit Keep On Keeping On Foundation. To date our summer and winter sale raised nearly $158.00. Enable us to add to that total and go ahead buy your own #CPChatNow t-shirt or winter apparel. First, before you go shop #CPChatNow apparel answer the extend-the-conversation question.

This week's extend-the-conversation questions asks about 2017 New Year resolutions.“Is anyone setting New Year resolutions? If so, what are they?”

Answers go in the “Comments” section. Talk with you in 2017!

Sincerely,

-Zachary

#CPChatNow Recap- 12-21-2016

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Excitement resonated throughout #CPChatNow Wednesday, December 21st. I am co-host Zachary Fenell, tasked with compacting all that enthusiastic energy down into your weekly recap. Hype for a big announcement sparked the initial anticipation.

Zachary teases the announcement of a new interim co-host.Multiple community members expressed their excitement for my co-host Blake Henry as he prepares for his next adventure.

#CPChatNow community members express their excitement for co-host Blake Henry's upcoming adventure.Summarizing in my own words the details to Blake’s upcoming opportunity feels underwhelming. Rather I recommend you check out his post for yourself. Read “Blake Henry’s Next Adventure.”

While time ticked away until the interim co-host announcement, our dialogue transitioned to the previous week’s extend-the-conversation question. Special guest Heaven Ramsey asked the question during her “Strength Through Community” focus chat. “Did you feel alone before social media?”

Lindsay takes time to answer the extend-the-conversation question from the December 14th focus chat "Strength Through Community.".This triggered discussion on the differences various social media platforms provide.

#CPChatNow discusses how different social media platforms provide different support systems.In some ways my explanation echoed sentiments I shared at our “Strength Through Community” focus chat December 14th.

For me chatting with the #CPChatNow regulars week after week I almost feel I know them as persons and not online connections.

The individual Blake and I chose as interim co-host falls into said category. Blake revealed the interim co-host’s identity around 8:30pm ET.

Devin Axtman will take over as #CPChatNow interim co-host while Blake studies in Europe during the spring 2017 semester.Congratulations to Devin! He deserves the opportunity based off seniority in #CPChatNow, his passion for the community, and more. Certainly though, a community needs more than co-hosts to thrive. Your participation keeps us going strong. Decisions we make as co-hosts aim to best serve you. Therefore your feedback proves vital. You will possess the opportunity to share feedback tomorrow Thursday, December 29th at our year end Google Hangout.

December 2016 #CPChatNow Google Hangout AnnouncementWhether you can make the Hangout or not, please reach out and share your feedback about #CPChatNow. Contact Blake, Devin, or myself. Give your input on how #CPChatNow runs. Plus offer any new suggestions.

Beyond all our exciting community activities, regular Jen turned our attention to holiday festivities. She asked about what you hoped to find under the Christmas tree.

#CPChatNow share what they want for Christmas. Although Christmas passed, let us maintain the holiday theme with the week’s extend-the-conversation question. This time we concentrate on the giving aspect to the season. Answer “What is a gift you gave this holiday season?”

Answer for the extend-the-conversation question, "What is a gift you gave this holiday season?"Leave your response in the “Comments” section below.

Additionally note, #CPChatNow apparel still remains available. At your request we extended the #CPChatNow t-shirt and winter apparel sale to Monday, January 2nd, 2017. A #CPChatNow shirt could make a great belated holiday gift. Or, perhaps you feel like buying yourself a present. Proceeds from the sale go to the non-profit Keep On Keeping On Foundation. So, essentially you still end up giving to someone else!

Go ahead and order your #CPChatNow shirt. Too attend our Google Hangout Thursday, December 29th and share your feedback on our community. Finally, remember to answer the week’s extend-the-conversation question “What is a gift you gave this holiday season?”

Comment away!

-Zachary

 

#CPChatNow Recap- Community Through Strength Focus Chat

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Special guest Heaven Ramsey joined #CPChatNow Wednesday, December 14th to lead our “Strength Through Community” focus chat. I am co-host Zachary Fenell, ready to compile chat highlights into your weekly recap. Enjoy!

Heaven’s credentials as a community leader begins with her Facebook page, “A Stairway to the Stars: Heaven’s Journey with CP.” Over 8,000 people like the page. More importantly, the page provides an active and supportive community. Support proved a key concept discussed throughout the evening.

Heaven asks if you felt alone before social media came along.#CPChatNow community members answer Heaven Ramsey's question about feeling alone.Most participants seemed to empathize with Heaven’s alone sentiment. Although others enjoyed a belonging feeling. What about you? Allow me to rephrase Heaven’s question for the week’s extend-the-conversation question. Answer “Did you feel alone before social media?”

Leave your response in the “Comments” section. First though, let us continue with the recap. My answer to Heaven’s question spurred dialogue revealing a valuable aspect community supplies.

Heaven points out it is important to have a person who understands you.The understanding you find in a community helps relieve the previously mentioned loneliness. Also regarding understanding, #CPChatNow regular Devin sought to better understand Heaven’s goal with her Facebook page.

Heaven answers Devin's question about what her ultimate goal is with her Facebook page.A mentoring program like Heaven aspires to create could reduce loneliness even more. Plus build certain expectations so kids with cerebral palsy growing up can feel increasingly confident towards their futures. Such a demand already exists too. In fact returning participant Sarah demonstrated as much in a tweet.

#CPChatNow participant Sarah seeks advice for starting a conversation with her teacher.Co-host Zachary Fenell gives his suggestion to Sarah.By offering encouraging feedback and practical advice, #CPChatNow empowers participants to better build in-person relationships and communities. Maybe that explains why participants continually profess their admiration for our community.

Sarah professes her admiration for #CPChatNow.Additionally our guest Heaven Ramsey spoke highly about her experiences with us.

Heaven enjoyed her time leading a #CPChatNow focus chat.Come revel in the positive community one Wednesday yourself. #CPChatNow happens every Wednesday from 8pm ET-10pm ET. Tonight we will make a big announcement related to what my co-host Blake Henry posted on the website earlier in the month (read here).

Before then remember to answer the week’s extend-the-conversation question. The question gives those not on Twitter a chance to still participate in our community. The week’s question rephrases a question Heaven asked.

Answer this week's extend-the-conversation question! Leave your response in the "Comments" section.“Did you feel alone before social media?”

Respond in the “Comments” section below. As always thanks for your interest in our community. You allow us to thrive.

Until next time!

-Zachary