Building Bonds & Learning From Each Other

Ed Bartz is a 61-year-old man living successfully with cerebral palsy. He has strived to live independently and has been a strong advocate for self-direction programs. Ed uses an augmentative communication device to convey his thoughts and feelings, and he is known for his social nature and sense of humor. He hires direct support professionals (DSPs) to assist him with personal care and live the quality of life he desires.

Wilson Pickett has been a DSP for over 0 years. He started his career working with individuals with autism and later transitioned to working with individuals with more complex needs. Wilson has been supporting Ed Bartz for 14 years and has developed a strong bond with him. He values the individualized support he can provide through self-direction and finds fulfillment in helping individuals live their lives to the fullest.

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Gina Scarpa interviews Ed Bartz, a man living with cerebral palsy, and his DSP, Wilson Pickett. Ed shares his journey of striving for independence and the challenges he faced in finding support that aligned with his vision. He emphasizes the importance of self-direction programs and the role of DSPs in helping him live the quality of life he desires. Wilson, who has been supporting Ed for 14 years, discusses his experience in the field and the unique bond he has formed with Ed through self-direction. The episode highlights the importance of compassion and the desire to help others in becoming a DSP.

•  Ed Bartz has successfully lived with cerebral palsy and has strived for independence.
• Self-direction programs have allowed Ed to choose his own support and live the life he desires.
• Direct support professionals (DSPs) play a crucial role in helping individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives.
• Direct support professionals (DSPs) sometimes get to do things out of the ordinary.
• Becoming a DSP requires compassion and a genuine desire to help others.

Notable Quotes:

•  "My disability has made me the person I am." - Ed Bartz
•  "Being able to laugh and joke is important, at least in my opinion." - Ed Bartz
•  “My history in striving to live on my own took many twists and turns. Not only the physical but getting others to believe in my vision.” – Ed Bartz
•  “Through the years we’ve [Ed and I] learned each other.” – Wilson Pickett
•  "Just helping a person live their life and do what they need to do, that's what I would think you need first." - Wilson Pickett

Resources:

Augmentative Communication Devices & Other Assistive Technology - Assistive Technology, Environmental Modifications, and Vehicle Modifications | Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (ny.gov)

The ARC of Rensselaer County - The Arc of Rensselaer County - The Arc of Rensselaer County (renarc.org)

The Regional Center for Workforce Transformation - Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation | Code of Ethics & Core Competencies for Direct Support Professionals

The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities Self-Direction - Self-Direction | Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (ny.gov)

Listen to the full episode of DSP Talk to gain insight into the experiences of Ed Bartz, a man living with cerebral palsy, and his dedicated DSP, Wilson Pickett. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and valuable discussions on the 

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