Chicago MobilityWorks Second Annual Mobility Expo

11:30AM — Attorney Bill Wilson from Wilson and Wilson Law Offices:
Hot Topics in Elder Law
The Hot Topics Currently Include: The Five Essential Estate Planning Documents, The New Illinois Power of Attorney Law, Five Wishes Document, Veterans Benefits and the New Medicaid Law

1:00PM — Kristine Cichowski, Director of the Life Center at Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago:
Become an Expert Navigator: Get the Most Out of Every Outing
Understanding what it means to anticipate obstacles can help everyone experience smooth and fun outings. This session provides helpful tips and strategies to leverage accessibility features in the community.

2:30PM — Michell Haase of TravelinWheels:
Travel Tips for People with Disabilities
This session will cover how to have a successful vacation when you or your loved one has a disability. It will answer questions on the best type of vacations, which vacations are the most accessible and what to do in case of an emergency.

4:00PM — Tammy Duckworth:
A Veteran's Perspective
In 2003, Tammy Duckworth was working on a project for Rotary International to provide wheelchairs for the disabled in developing countries including Iraq. As a Captain in the National Guard, she was mobilized for Operation Iraqi Freedom and deployed in 2004. As a Black Hawk helicopter pilot, she was one of the first women to fly combat missions in Iraq until November 12th, 2004 when her helicopter was hit by an RPG. Tammy lost both legs and part of the use of her right arm in the explosion, and was awarded the Purple Heart for her combat injuries. During her recovery at Walter Reed, Tammy was one of the highest-ranking amputees and became an advocate for her fellow soldiers. Her leadership was recognized when she was asked to testify before Congress and recruited to run for the House of Representatives. After losing a close race, Tammy continued to serve as a Major in the National Guard and became Director of Illinois' Department of Veterans' Affairs. There, she implemented many first in the nation programs to address Post Traumatic Stress, improve traumatic brain injury screening and reduce homelessness among Vets.

5:30PM — Mike Berkson and Tim Wambac :
Making Minds Handicap Accessible
Mike Berkson and Tim Wambach will stir your senses, challenge your thinking, and wake up your attitude. Their speech is a provocative look at friendship, breaking down barriers, and living with disabilities - most of all about everyone's potential. Their true story pushes the envelope and encourages everyone to examine the concept of their own abilities. Mike and Tim's story will raise awareness about people living with severe physical handicaps and inspire individuals to achieve their own goals and dreams.