MMI for the record

UNMC educators answer the call for Bellevue Fire and Safety Day
Members of the MMI Department of Physical Therapy turned out Aug. 18 to take part in the 2018 Fire and Safety Day for individuals with special needs and their families, held at the Bellevue Fire Department. MMI physical therapists Marne Iwand and Amy Beyersdorf offered information on car seat, as well as information about MMI, to attendees.

The event is designed to help individuals with special needs and their families learn how to react safely and correctly in the case of a fire or other emergency. The Bellevue Fire Department partnered with the Ollie Webb Center, the Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands, the Autism Society of Nebraska and other agencies to hold the annual event.

MMI/CASD presenter at HETRA’s Disability Awareness Clinic

Katherine Lichtblau

Katherine Lichtblau, doctoral student at MMI’s Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, presented behavior management strategies at the Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy’s disability awareness clinic in August.

Lichtblau discussed the ABC’s of behavior, improving communication strategies for non-verbal individuals and ways to avoid behavior blasts.

“We greatly appreciate Katie’s willingness to present at a HETRA event again,” said Kim Falk, HETRA board member. “Katie shared very useful behavior strategies that could benefit all parents.”

HETRA is developing a program through a contact with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services that incorporates General Therapeutic Riding and Organization Administration, Disability Awareness Clinics and Respite Caregivers Retreats. DHHS is planning to pilot this program at other equine therapy organizations across the state to offer additional support and respite for family caregivers.