Invisible No More — Invisible Disabilities Association

Clay Aiken Wins 50K for His Charity for Kids with Disabilities

Former Professional Baseball Player, Ed Hearn, Battles Kidney Disease

George Clooney Battles Pain, Insomnia and Bouts of Loneliness

Hit Country Singer, Trace Adkins, Brings Awareness to Food Allergies

IDA Keynote Speaker, Luis Carlos Montalván on David Letterman

Kathy Buckley, Comedian, Actress, Motivational Speaker

Tim Tebow Makes a Difference for Youth Living with Illness and Injury

About

The Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA) encourages, educates and connects people and organizations touched by illness, pain and disability around the globe. Formerly known as The Invisible Disabilities Advocate, IDA was founded in 1997 and incorporated in 2004 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit. IDA reaches out through our websites, projects, articles, pamphlets, booklet, social network, resources, videos, radio interviews, seminars, events and more! Get the word out! Share a link to our articles and pages with Google Plus, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and through Email by clicking on the Share link. Leave a comment!

Filed Under: Celebrities, Invisible No More Tagged With: Aresenio Hall, author, awareness, celebrity, celebrity apprentice, Clay Aiken, ed hearn, illness, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, jason graham, kidney disease, non-profit, real housewives of new jersey, spreading the word, Teresa Giudice, The NephCure Foundation, video

National Inclusion Project

Clay Aiken in Celebrity Apprentice Finals for Kids with Disabilities

March 30, 2012 By admin 7 Comments

Screenshot from Celebrity Apprentice Interview

UPDATE – Clay Aiken makes it into the Finals of Celebrity Apprentice. See below for details!

Clay Aiken, first runner up on ‘American Idol’ Season 2 in 2003 is now a contestant on ‘Celebrity Apprentice,’ Season 5. He is there to raise money for his charity, the National Inclusion Project.

Clay shared:

The National Inclusion Project is an organization that I helped start about eight years ago. I used to see kids with disabilities get kicked out of programs or not be allowed to go to a summer camp that I was working at because they had Autism or a little boy or girl had Cerebral Palsy and they didn’t have the ability to work with them at the summer camp. In our social settings. We do segregate. We don’t include individuals with disabilities in workplaces oftentimes and almost always, unfortunately, in extra-curricular programs. So we work with university to help create a curriculum that teaches people how to include kids with disabilities and without disabilities in service learning projects. So, inclusive groups of kids, teenagers, will work together to do stuff in their community. We are sort of a service organization that serves other non-profits in a way (Video: Clay Aiken’s Charity).

For his first task as Project Manager ,the show that aired on March 25th, the teams were asked to throw a party for Crystal Light’s new “mocktail” beverages. For the men’s team, Unanimous, Clay volunteered to be Project Manager. For the women’s team, Forte, Aubrey O’Day was the Project Manager.

Clay and his team chose to highlight the Peach Bellini flavor and use the tagline, “Life’s a Peach.” Their party had a beach-theme, complete with sand, island music and tikki-bars. Special guests, Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb showed up to the party and when the Crystal Light Executives arrived, Clay sang, “Under the Boardwalk.”

Although the contest seemed to be close, Team Unanimous was chosen as the winners. As their reward, Clay’s charity was to be given $20,000 from the show. As an added bonus, Crystal Light also contributed $30,000, making Clay’s contribution to his charity, $50,000.

UPDATE 5/13/12 – Clay Aiken makes it into the Finals of Celebrity Apprentice. Aubrey O’Day is fired, leaving Clay Aiken and Arsenio Hall to battle it out in the finals. Clay and Arsenio are giving their tasks to raise money for their charities by planning, producing and starring in a fundraising event. They were given the opportunity to choose from a group of former Celebrity Apprentice contestants.

Clay’s Team: Aubrey O’Day, Debbie Gibson, Dee Snider and Penn Jillette.

Arsenio’s Team: Adam Carolla, Lisa Lampanelli, Paul Teutul, Sr. and Teresa Giudice.

Clay Aiken’s Charity

Life’s a Peach

ARTICLE RESOURCES

Video: Life’s a Peach. Celebrity Apprentice. Season 5. 2012.

Video: Clay Aiken’s Charity. Celebrity Apprentice. Season 5. 2012.

RELATED STORIES ON IDA

Actress Marlee Matlin Raises a Million Dollars for the Starkey Hearing Foundation

Former Professional Baseball Player, Ed Hearn, Battles Kidney Disease

George Clooney Battles Pain, Insomnia and Bouts of Loneliness

Hit Country Singer, Trace Adkins, Brings Awareness to Food Allergies

IDA Keynote Speaker, Luis Carlos Montalván on David Letterman

Kathy Buckley, Comedian, Actress, Motivational Speaker

Teresa Giudice Wins 60K in Honor of Child with Kidney Disease

Tim Tebow Makes a Difference for Youth Living with Illness and Injury

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Celebrities, Invisible No More Tagged With: advocate, autism, awareness, celebrity, celebrity apprentice, cerebral palsy, Clay Aiken, disability, Invisible No More!, National Inclusion Project, news, non-profit, outreach, personal story, singer, spreading the word, video

American Idol Official Website

‘American Idol’ Contestant, Heejun Han Loves Working with Special Needs Children

February 28, 2012 By admin 1 Comment

Screenshot from Audition Video Copyright 'American Idol'

SEE LATEST Updates and Videos Below!

Season 11 ‘American Idol’ contestant, 22 year old Heejun Han is originally from Korea and now lives in Flushing, New York. Heejun said:

I was inspired to do this audition, because I work at a non-profit organization for kids with special needs. I wanted to prove to them that if you really, really want something and you really really believe in it, you can be someone” (Heejun’s Interview After His First Audition).

Later in the competition, Heejun admitted:

I had a bad depression, but the kids and the organization just pulled me out from there, so I just had to give something back to them. Without those kids I wouldn’t even have motivation to come out here and do all this kind of stuff. I’m not only doing this for myself. I could say that 100%, this is for the kids and it just makes me so happy” (Sing for Your Life – Heejun Han).

Heejun auditioned for ‘American Idol’ in Pittsburgh. Before his auditions, Heejun said about the other contestants, “I thought I was a little good, but they’re just crazy good” (Audition in Pittsburgh). Heejun sang, “How am I Supposed to Live Without You” by Michael Bolton.

He seemed a bit nervous, but delivered a very smooth and heartfelt song and the judges were absolutely impressed! Steven said, “Heejun, man, you sing great” Jennifer agreed, “You have a beautiful voice! I love you!” and Randy added, “On a serious note. I am really impressed and shocked!” Steven chimed in again with, “Ya, I think you’re really great. I think you could be an ‘American Idol.” Heejun was taken back by the comments and said, “Wow! Nobody told me that kind of stuff!” (Heejun’s Audition in Pittsburgh).

All three judges, Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler sent Heejun straight to Hollywood!

Heejun has a very dry and sarcastic sense of humor, talking about everything from the other contestants being so talented to how “pretty” and good looking they are. He said in Hollywood:

I got here and everyone’s SO tall, SO pretty. Even the guys are so pretty, I don’t know why. I don’t know what they eat, but they’re so good looking!

At one point, Ryan Seacrest asked him what he was sweating in the competition. Heejun answered, “Mostly water.”

Heejun seemed to sail right through Hollywood week, except for his personality clashes with country singer, Richie Law. Although the group seemed to be challenged, their performance got them all onto the next round. Again, Heejun’s dry sense of humor came out as he talked about the “cowboy” in his group. Nonetheless, he did apologize to Richie and his parents for his behavior on camera.

Heejun made it in the Top 24. During his interview he talked about how excited his mom was when he told her the news! Then Heejun added:

The greatest thing that I am worrying about is a “stereo-type” that they’re going to have towards me; like an Asian stereo-type. But I hope I can break that. And if they can just see me as a singer, not as a type of person. Don’t watch the music, but listen to the music. You know?”

Heejun, we think every person has something unique and special about them. There is only one you; embrace all you have been given and all you are!

UPDATE 3/29/12 – Sad to report that Heejun was sent home tonight. He was in the Bottom 3 with Hollie Cavanagh and Skylar Laine. We are sad to see you, go Heejun! Congratulations for making it to the Top 9, for staying true to yourself and for encouraging those around you to reach out to others!

Heejun said during his Curtain Call Interview:

The reason I started out this competition was to prove that if you truly believe in yourself you can become someone regardless of who you are. And if you do something for others, the outcome is something beyond imagination. I hope I impacted at least one person. So, go out there and help other people, because they’re not far away, they are right next to you in your neighborhood. Alright guys! Stay crazy, stay humble, stay cool, stay relaxed, stay who you are … cuz this is just the beginning. Let’s do this together again!

UPDATE 3/28/12 – After Heejun had been given lots of flack about his not “taking the competition seriously,” he came back full force. Heejun won’t stop being entertaining self, but the judges and mentors encouraged him to get serious and show what he can do. So, Heejun did just that with this very appropriate song and message, “A Song for You” by Donny Hathaway during the Top 9 performance show. The judges loved it.

UPDATE 3/22/12 – Heejun was in the Bottom 3 this week for the first time. Joining him was DeAndre Brackenstick and Erika Van Pelt. Although Erika belted out an amazing vocal and the judges loved it, she was sent home.

UPDATE 3/21/12 – The Top 10 perform. Heejun broke way out of his ballad streak and took over the stage. It was Billy Joel night and Heejun sang, “My Life.” The judges thought it was entertaining and fun, but didn’t show off his voice as they know he can sing.

UPDATE 3/15/12 – Although during the performance night, Randy pegged Heejun for being at risk for going home, Heejun was not even in the Bottom 3. Instead, Heejun made it into the coveted Top 10, allowing him to go on the American Idol tour.

UPDATE 3/14/12 – Heejun sang, “Right Here Waiting” by Richard Marx at the Top 11 show.

This show turned out to be the Top 11, because Jermaine Jones was removed from the competition for not having been forthright about his past history with four outstanding warrants from the police. According to the Huffington Post, three were for giving the police a false name (once when they responded to a fight, once from when he was riding in a car that was pulled over and another time when he was driving with a suspended license). The other was for not showing up for a court date.

UPDATE 3/8/12 – Out of the Top 13 (7 guys and 6 gals), Heejun was not in the bottom 6 (3 guys, 3 gals). He whisked right through again!

UPDATE 3/7/12 – Heejun sang, “All In Love is Fair” by Stevie Wonder for the Top 13 Performance night. Jennifer said, “I love you! I loved you from the first time you sang for me and I still love you now. ” Steven said, “Heejun! Fantastic! I love your voice, man. Somethin’ about it’s real special. Keep it up.” Randy added, “Dude! It wasn’t perfect, but it was REALLY good!”

UPDATE 3/1/12 – Heejun made it into the Top 10 by America’s votes! Joining him are Colton Dixon, Elise Testone, Hollie Cavanagh, Jermaine Jones, Jessica Sanchez, Joshua Ledet, Phillip Phillips, Shannon Magrane and Skylar Laine. Then the judges let six more kids “sing for their lives.” The judges each picked one more contestant to join the Top 10, to make a Top 13: Jeremy Rosado, Erika Van Pelt and Deandre Brackensick.

UPDATE 2/28/12 – Heejun sang, “I’m Loving Angels Instead” by Jessica Simpson. Heejun did a great job! The judges agreed, but commented that the song didn’t show off all of his capabilities. As promised, an additional male vocalist was added to the round. Formerly disqualified, Jermaine Jones was asked to return for another chance. On Wednesday, the Top 12 girls will have a chance to sing. On Thursday, the Top 25 (previously the Top 24) will be narrowed down to the Top 12. Ten will be chosen by America’s votes and two by the judges.

UPDATE 2/23/12 – Heejun sails into the Top 24 with his rendition of “New York State of Mind” by Billy Joel.

Also going into the Semi-Finals are Aaron Marcellus, Adam Brock, Baylie Brown, Brielle Von Hugel, Chase Likens, Chelsea Sorrell, Colton Dixon, Creighton Fraker, Deandre Brackensick, Eben Franckewitz, Elise Teston, Erika Van Pelt, Haley Johnsen, Hallie Day, Hollie Cavanagh, Jen Hirsh, Jeremy Rosado, Jessica Sanchez, Joshua Ledet, Phillip Phillips, Reed Grimm, Shannon Magrane, Skylar Laine. On Tuesday February 28th, they will be announcing a Surprise Save, as they add another boy into the Semi-Finals who was previously sent home.

UPDATE 2/16/12 – Heejun moved on to the next rounds as the contestants went from 70 to 42.

UPDATE 2/15/12 – Heejun survived Hollywood week and moved on to Las Vegas!

UPDATE 2/15/12 – Heejun made it through group rounds! 97 other contestants joined him, including Jennifer Malsh, Cari Quoyeser, Reed Grimm, Nick Boddingtom, Creighton Fraker, Aaron Marcellus, Jen Hirsh, Shannon Magrane, Joshua Ledet, Brielle Von Hugel, Amber Holcomb, Mathenee Treco, Ariel Sprague, Eben Franckewitz, David Leathers, Jr., Jeremy Rosado, Gabi Carrubba, Johnny Keyser, Heejun Han, Jairon Jackson, Richie Law, Phillip Phillips, Colton Dixon, Adam Brock, Skylar Laine and many more.

VIDEOS:

Heejun’s Farewell Message

Heejun sings, “A Song for You” by Donny Hathaway during the Top 9 performance show

Heejun in the Top 10 Singing, “My Life” by Billy Joel.

Heejun in the Top 11 Singing, “Right Here Waiting” by Richard Marx.

Heejun Han in 60 Seconds

Heejun Singing “All In Love is Fair” by Stevie Wonder During the Top 13 Performance Show

Top 13 Group Singing “As” by Stevie Wonder.

Recap of Top 13 Performance Night

Heejun’s Interview After Making it Into the Top 13

Heejun sings, “Angels” by Jessica Simpson in the Top 24

Recap of Top 12 Guys, Plus the Surprise Addition of Jermaine.

Heejun Han Interview After Being Selected for the Top 24.

Heejun’s Interview and Solo in Las Vegas, Before the Top 24 was Announced. Heejun sang, “New York State of Mind” by Billy Joel.

Las Vegas Round – “I Only Have Have Eyes for You” by The Flamingos. Neco Starr, Jairon Jackson, Heejun Han and Phillip Phillips.

MIT aka “Most International Team” Group Night in Hollywood Singing, “Broken Strings” by James Morrison. Richie Law, Jairon Jackson, Heejun Han and Phillip Phillips.

Recap of Hollywood Week – Group Night

Hollywood Week – Round 1

Hollywood Week – Moments That Make You Smile

Heejun’s Interview After His First Audition.

Heejun’s Audition in Pittsburgh. A Must See!

Recap of Pittsburgh Auditions

ARTICLE RESOURCES:

Quotes from Videos Posted on This Page.

Photo: Screenshot from ‘American Idol’ Audition Video. Copyright ‘American Idol.’

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Heejun Han’s Facebook Page

MilAl Mission in New York

ADDITIONAL STORIES on IDA:

Shelby Tweten, Teen with Bipolar on ‘American Idol.’

Living with Asperger’s and Tourette’s: James Durbin Contestant on ‘American Idol.’

Living with TBI: ‘American Idol’ Contestant, Chris Medina, Stands by Fiance

About

Filed Under: Celebrities, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: american idol, caregiver, heejun han, inspiration, jennifer lopez, learning disabilities, news, personal story, randy jackson, ryan seacrest, steven tyler, television, video

Actress Marlee Matlin Raises a Million Dollars for the Starkey Hearing Foundation

George Clooney Battles Pain, Insomnia and Bouts of Loneliness

February 23, 2012 By admin 4 Comments

George Clooney Actors Guild Awards - dreamstime.com

Most of us can only imagine what it would be like to be famous; to have no worries about money, the best medical care, pampering at the spa, lots of vacations, lots of friends and a beautiful home with a cook and a housekeeper. So, what could a star possibly have to complain about?

Turns out, as successful as George Clooney is, he is still human. A few days ago, The Hollywood Reporter published that Clooney revealed he is battling pain, insomnia and bouts of loneliness.

LifelineLIVE wrote, “The suave star, 50, shares — in an in-depth profile — that, for all his fame and fortune, he’s got his fears and troubles, including battling Bell’s palsy at age 14 and still coping with pain from a back accident on 2005′s Syriana.”

According to HollyscoopTV,“The actor has spoken before about the pain he suffered in 2005 from a leak in his spinal cord that was so intense he contemplated suicide.”

When talking about his insomnia, Clooney said:

‘Turning off the television causes me to think, and once I start that vision roaring, I have a very tough time getting to sleep.’ With the flickering screen, ‘I’m able to numb out.’ Even then, ‘Without question, I wake every night five times’ (The Hollywood Reporter).

One thing we noticed about some of the comments made about Clooney by reporters and readers, they often asked why he did not just use Tylenol PM or alternative treatments such as acupuncture. Therefore, it appears even celebrities, who have access to all kinds of doctors and treatments, still have people assuming they have not tried anything or done anything about their condition. Most likely Clooney has tried these things and more. Nevertheless, as many with chronic conditions quickly discover, some things work for some people, but not for others.

George Clooney Reveals His Secret Pain from HollyscoopTV

ARTICLE RESOURCES

George Clooney: The Private Life of a Superstar. Stephen Galloway. The Hollywood Reporter. February 12, 2012.

George Clooney: Lonely, can’t sleep, battling chronic pain. Ann Oldenburg. LifelineLIVE. USAToday. February 17, 2012.

Video. George Clooney Reveals His Secret Pain. Stephanie Bauer. HollyscoopTV. February 17, 2012.

Photo of George Clooney. LOS ANGELES – JAN 29: George Clooney arrives at the 18th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Shrine Auditorium on January 29, 2012 in Los Angeles, CA. Copyright dreamstime.com.

RELATED STORIES ON IDA

Former Professional Baseball Player, Ed Hearn, Battles Kidney Disease

George Clooney Battles Pain, Insomnia and Bouts of Loneliness

Hit Country Singer, Trace Adkins, Brings Awareness to Food Allergies

IDA Keynote Speaker, Luis Carlos Montalván on David Letterman

Kathy Buckley, Comedian, Actress, Motivational Speaker

Tim Tebow Makes a Difference for Youth Living with Illness and Injury

About

Filed Under: Celebrities, Invisible No More Tagged With: actor, awareness, celebrity, george clooney, insomnia, Invisible No More!, news, pain, personal story, video

Doctor’s Perspective Changes When She Gets Cancer

February 23, 2012 By admin 1 Comment

As a Molecular Geneticist and Oncologist, Jennifer Kelly, MD was quite familiar with Cancer patients and treatments.

Still, she was surprised to find herself responding in some of the same ways that her patients have. Most of all, she realized that she was no longer the doctor, but the patient.

Dr. Kelly wrote:

While I am still battling cancer and have not yet returned to work nor am I leading a normal life, my illness has changed me profoundly as a physician. No amount of doctoring can prepare you for being a patient. During the past year, I have endured multiple treatment methods, metastasis, and most recently the discovery of a brain tumor that threatens my eyesight. The past year has been full of the most vulnerable moments in my life.

If anything, it’s that recognition of vulnerability as well as expertise that makes me a better doctor today (medpageTODAY’s KevingMD.com).

Read full story.

ARTICLE RESOURCE

A diagnosis of stomach cancer profoundly changes an oncologist. Jennifer Kelly, MD, PHD. medpageTODAY’s KevinMD.com. February 2012.

Stock Photo. Dr. Kelly not in picture.

About

Filed Under: Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: awareness, cancer, disability, doctors and nurses, illness, inspiration, invisible disabilities, personal story

Invisible No More: Suzanne Stewart

February 16, 2012 By admin 3 Comments

Through the project, Invisible No More! the Invisible Disabilities Association is bringing awareness, compassion and belief to millions living with debilitating conditions, shining a light on the “invisible” and making these valuable, incredible people Invisible No More!

This video features the story of Suzanne Stewart, who lives with RSD / CRPS, Traumatic Brain Injury and other complications after a car accident. Suzanne used to be an Interpreter for the Deaf. She is a Chemo-Angel and makes awareness jewelry when she is able. She has written a book that has not yet been published, “Butterfly Tears: A Journey from Darkness Into Life” and keeps a blog, You ‘N Me and a Cuppa Tea.

Learn More About Invisible No More TV	Go to Invisible No More TV Channel
Join Invisible No More TV on Facebook	Submit Your Invisible No More Story
Order Invisible No More T-Shirts and More	Order Invisible No More Wristbands

About

Filed Under: Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: accident, awareness, Dysautonomia, illness, injury, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, RSD, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Invisible No More: Sarah Friedner

February 6, 2012 By admin 1 Comment

This video features the story of Sarah Friedner, who lives with POTS, NCS, Endometriosis and Mastocytosis. Sarah is a mom of two young children and she reaches out to others living with POTS and chronic illness through her YouTube Channel, A Mom’s Journey with POTS.

Learn More About Invisible No More TV	Go to Invisible No More TV Channel
Join Invisible No More TV on Facebook	Submit Your Invisible No More Story
Order Invisible No More T-Shirts and More	Order Invisible No More Wristbands

About

Filed Under: Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: awareness, disability, illness, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, parenting, personal story, POTS, video

‘American Idol’ Official Website

Shelby Tweten, Teen with Bipolar on ‘American Idol’

January 26, 2012 By admin 1 Comment

Photo courtesy of Shelby Tweten Facebook Page

Latest Updates and Videos of Shelby!

17 year old, Shelby Tweten from North Mankato, Minnesota auditioned for ‘American Idol’ in Denver, Colorado. Shelby and several of the contestants from Denver were invited to travel and stay in Aspen, Colorado for the round of auditions that were recorded for television.

Shelby was also chosen to have a back-story about her life to be presented during the airing of the auditions on January 25th.

In this video package, Shelby and her mom share a little bit about Shelby’s challenging journey. Just last year, Shelby was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. However, she says she has battled depression since the fourth grade.

Shelby said,

“American Idol’ has given me a reason to stay on my meds.” Shelby continued, “I wasn’t focusing on staying with them, cuz I really didn’t care. When I’m off my meds, I’m incoherent and I’m not myself.” Her mom added, “She doesn’t have the light in her.”

Shelby opened up with,

“There’s been times when I’ve had hypo-manic episodes. I’ll be shaking, I will stutter, I can’t control my body and my mom will be like, ‘Well, let’s sing together!’ And I’ll sing and it really helps!”

After Shelby’s audition, all three judges, Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler agreed to send her to Hollywood for the next rounds!

UPDATE 2/23/12 – See more news on the Top 24! Click here: ‘American Idol’ Contestant, Heejun Han Loves Working with Special Needs Children

UPDATE 2/23/2012 – Shelby did not make it into the Top 24. We are sad to see you go home, Shelby! But we are proud of you! Keep singing and go back next year!

The Top 24 going into the Semi-Finals are Aaron Marcellus, Adam Brock, Baylie Brown, Brielle Von Hugel, Case Likens, Chelsea Sorrell, Colton Dixon, Creighton Fraker, Deandre Brackensick, Eben Franckewitz, Elise Teston, Erika Van Pelt, Haley Johnsen, Hallie Day, Heejun Han, Hollie Cavanagh, Jen Hirsh, Jeremy Rosado, Jessica Sanchez, Joshua Ledet, Phillip Phillips, Reed Grimm, Shannon Magrane, Skylar Laine.

On Tuesday February 28th, they will be announcing a Surprise Save, as they add another boy into the Semi-Finals who was previously sent home.

UPDATE 2/16/12 – Shelby moved on to the next rounds as the contestants went from 70 to 42.

UPDATE 2/15/12 – Shelby survives Hollywood week and moved on to Las Vegas!

UPDATE 2/15/12 – Shelby made it through group rounds!

97 other contestants joined her, including Jennifer Malsh, Cari Quoyeser, Reed Grimm, Nick Boddingtom, Creighton Fraker, Aaron Marcellus, Jen Hirsh, Shannon Magrane, Joshua Ledet, Brielle Von Hugel, Amber Holcomb, Mathenee Treco, Ariel Sprague, Eben Franckewitz, David Leathers, Jr., Jeremy Rosado, Gabi Carrubba, Johnny Keyser, Heejun Han, Jairon Jackson, Richie Law, Phillip Phillips, Colton Dixon, Adam Brock, Skylar Laine and many more.

VIDEOS:

Shelby with her group singing, Great Balls of Fire in Las Vegas

Recap of Hollywood Week – Group Night

Hollywood Week – Round 1

Shelby’s Audition in Aspen, CO and back-story package about her.

‘American Idol’ Aspen Auditions – ‘American Idol’

ARTICLE RESOURCES:

Photo Courtesy of Shelby Tweten Facebook Page

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Bipolar Disorder Does Not Define Shelby Tweten on ‘American Idol.’ Video from MTV.com

Shelby Tweten – “Temporary Home” – Idol2012TV

ADDITIONAL STORIES on IDA:

‘American Idol’ Contestant, Heejun Han Loves Working with Special Needs Children

Shelby Tweten, Teen with Bipolar on ‘American Idol.’

Living with Asperger’s and Tourette’s: James Durbin Contestant on ‘American Idol.’

Living with TBI: ‘American Idol’ Contestant, Chris Medina, Stands by Fiance

About

Filed Under: Celebrities, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: american idol, awareness, behavioral disorders, bipolar disorder, celebrity, depression, disability, illness, inspiration, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, jennifer lopez, news, personal story, randy jackson, ryan seacrest, singer, spreading the word, steven tyler, video

2010 Inspiration Award – Jason Graham

Tim Tebow Makes a Difference for Youth Living with Illness and Injury

January 17, 2012 By admin 3 Comments

Screenshot of CBS Sports Interview, A different side of Tim Tebow with James Brown

Tim Tebow, quarterback for the Denver Broncos, has been a hot topic in the media for the past few months, otherwise known as “Tebow-Mania.” People are talking about both his skills and future as a quarterback, as well as his faith that he has never tried to hide. It seems that with all the fanfare, some people are really crazy about him and some people are really not.

All of that aside, we would like to talk about Tebow’s heart to reach out to kids through his organization the Tim Tebow Foundation which strives to “… inspire and make a difference in peoples lives throughout the world.” The foundation focuses on youth “…needing a brighter day in their darkest hour of need” (Tim Tebow Foundation).

Tebow isn’t a stranger to giving his time to children, as he has been a part of several charities and organizations since college. He also volunteers for the Daniel Graham Foundation, founded by former Bronco, Daniel Graham. Recently, through Tebow’s foundation he has been inviting a young person with a serious medical condition to the Broncos game, at their expense.

Bailey Knaub’s Story:

16 year old Bailey Knaub was invited to the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. When James Brown of NFL Today interviewed Tebow and Knaub, Bailey told him she met Tebow as a result of a letter Bailey’s cousin sent in about her story. Bailey says she has been a Tebow fan since he played in college.

Bailey was diagnosed with Wegener’s granulomatosis at the age of seven. She has had 73 surgeries in the past 10 years, including the removal of a lung. Brown asked Bailey how she has dealt with all her health struggles and she answered,

It’s been difficult, but I’ve learned to deal with it. I’ve it since I was little, so I just try to stay positive through it all. And Tim just gave me somebody to look up to and was my hero and gave me the confidence to continue on.

Tebow responded,

For me to at least be able to encourage her, just be part of her life, that’s exciting for me. …. I know she’s said that I’m her hero, but that’s not true. She really gives me inspiration. She’s my hero. Ultimately, that’s what matters at the end of the day. Being able to have a relationship with someone like Bailey and be able to try to make an impact on peoples’ lives and that’s what it’s all about for me.

Zack McLeod’s Story:

20 year old Zack McLeod sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) while playing football his junior year of high school. Zack’s mother, Tammy said, “I just thought, ‘Zack and Tim have so much in common. I wonder if these two will ever meet?” She was referring to both Zack’s love for football and his strong faith.

Through Tebow’s foundation, Zack was invited to be Tebow’s special guest for the playoffs game in New England against the Patriots, where Zack lives in Boston. Zack had Zack and his family were elated about the opportunity to meet Tebow and his story appeared on USA Today the day before the game.

ARTICLE RESOURCES

A different side of Tim Tebow. NFL Today. CBS Sports. Playoffs Interview with James Brown. January 14, 2012

Daniel Graham Foundation

Fan with Brain Injury Gets to Attend Big Game Courtesy of Tim Tebow. CBS Denver. January 14, 2012.

Tim Tebow Foundation

Article photo screenshot of CBS Sports interview, A different side of Tim Tebow with James Brown, January 14, 2012

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Bronco Fan with Disease Recounts ‘Unreal’ Experience Meeting Tebow

Tebow: The man behind the mania

RELATED STORIES ON IDA

Actress Marlee Matlin Raises a Million Dollars for the Starkey Hearing Foundation

Former Professional Baseball Player, Ed Hearn, Battles Kidney Disease

George Clooney Battles Pain, Insomnia and Bouts of Loneliness

Hit Country Singer, Trace Adkins, Brings Awareness to Food Allergies

IDA Keynote Speaker, Luis Carlos Montalván on David Letterman

Kathy Buckley, Comedian, Actress, Motivational Speaker

Tim Tebow Makes a Difference for Youth Living with Illness and Injury

About

Filed Under: Celebrities, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: advocate, awareness, Bailey Knaub, CBS, celebrity, daniel graham, daniel graham foundation, denver, denver broncos, disability, encouragement, football, illness, injury, inspiration, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, James Brown, NFL Today, non-profit, personal story, sports, support, Tim Tebow, Tim Tebow Foundation, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), USA Today, Wegener’s granulomatosis, youth, Zack McLeod

2011 IDA Award Recipients

Invisible No More: 2011 IDA Awards Night

January 11, 2012 By admin 1 Comment

Learn more about the Invisible Disabilities Association and our new campaign, Invisible No More!

Hear from the Invisible Disabilities Association’s Founder and President, Wayne Connell and his passion to bring to light the challenges of living with debilitating conditions as well as the incredible courage and perseverance these people have.

Listen to Karyn Buxman, RN, MSN tell her whimsical, invisible story that paints a picture of how things are not always what they may seem. Karyn Buxman is a Nurse, Hall of Fame Speaker, Author and Humorist

Meet Special Guests Lori Frisher and Matt Barrett!

Lori is an Honor Student, two time cancer survivor and Emmy Nominee. She was also the first candidate in the world to receive the Esteem Implant, along with the Cochlear Implant she already had. Lori shares her journey of life with moderate to severe hearing impairment with her message, “Imagine.”

Matt has lived a life of amazing perseverance and courage. Since the age of 2, Matt has battled 11 types of cancer and has had over 1,700 surgeries. He has also been homeless on and off for much of his adult life. In addition to horrendous pain and fatigue, Matt has endured incredible discrimination. Because of the extensive surgeries and scaring on his face, Matt often gets stares, dirty looks and even called horrible names. Despite all of this, Matt’s friends will tell you he is one of the kindest people you will ever know.

Also in this video: Master of Ceremonies, DJ Rick Crandall of KEZW Radio

The Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA) encourages, educates and connects people and organizations touched by illness, pain and disability around the globe.

Invisible Disabilities Association: http://www.InvisibleDisabilities.org

RELATED ARTICLES:

A Lifelong Journey with Special Guest, Matt Barrett

Finding Humor in Difficult Times with Karyn Buxman, RN, MSN

IDA Honor Award Banquets

Imagine with IDA Special Guest, Lori Frisher

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Invisible No More Tagged With: advocate, awards, awareness, banquet, caregiver, disability, doctors and nurses, event, illness, injury, inspiration, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, loved ones, outreach, pain, speaker, spreading the word, support, video

Read the entire blog here at Disability.gov

Invisible No More on Disability.gov

January 4, 2012 By admin 3 Comments

IDA Founder, Wayne Connell recently had the opportunity to be a guest blogger on Disability.gov. Wayne shares about his wife, Sherri’s invisible journey, how they met and ultimately Wayne’s founding of IDA.

Wayne also had the opportunity to share about some of the incredible stories from IDA’s annual honors award banquets and guest bloggers on both www.YouTube.com/invisibledisability and here on www.InvisibleDisabilities.org.

Wayne said in response to learning about Sherri’s illness, “I was not deterred. I was falling head over heels in love.”

Leave your comments on the article and share it with your friends and family on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+ and by email below.

RELATED ARTICLES:

About IDA

Woman’s Disability Inspires Husband to Reach Out to Others

2011 IDA Brings Awareness and Support Around the World

2010 About the Invisible Disabilities Association – IDA Founder and President, Wayne Connell

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: advocate, author, awareness, caregiver, disability, illness, injury, inspiration, invisible disabilities, outreach, pain, personal story, spreading the word, support

Toxic Mold Uproots Family’s Health and Home

Invisible No More: Andrea Fabry

December 5, 2011 By admin 5 Comments

This video features the story of Andrea Fabry and her family who experienced severe mold toxicity from their home. Andrea now strives to help others facing the same issues as well as those who are healthy, by sharing their journey and what they have learned. She is the author of two websites: Our Health Journey and momsAWARE.

ADDITIONAL ARTICLES

Cleaner Indoor Air Campaign

Learn More About Invisible No More TV	Go to Invisible No More TV Channel
Join Invisible No More TV on Facebook	Submit Your Invisible No More Story
Order Invisible No More T-Shirts and More	Order Invisible No More Wristbands

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: advocate, author, awareness, disability, environmental illness, helpful tips, illness, injury, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, mold injury, multiple chemical sensitivities, personal story, video

Invisible No More: Jodie Akers

November 21, 2011 By admin 1 Comment

This video features the story of Jodie Akers, a young lady in the United Kingdom who lives with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). In the midst of her challenges, Jodie loves to encourage and educate others through her YouTube Channel and her website, POTS Awareness.

UPDATE: Jodie’s story was published in the Derby Telegraph on November 28, 2011. Jodie wants to make people aware of her life-altering and rare illness.

Learn More About Invisible No More TV	Go to Invisible No More TV Channel
Join Invisible No More TV on Facebook	Submit Your Invisible No More Story
Order Invisible No More T-Shirts and More	Order Invisible No More Wristbands

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: awareness, illness, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, personal story, POTS, spreading the word, support, video

Invisible No More: Milly

November 10, 2011 By admin Leave a Comment

This video features the story of Milly, a young lady who lives with Dysautonomia/POTS, HMS and Dysmotility. She is the author of the unpublished book, Trading Sorrows and is working on one called, New Mercies. Despite the daily challenges Milly faces, she strives to encourage and educate others through her YouTube Channel, Flyinhyy.

Learn More About Invisible No More TV	Go to Invisible No More TV Channel
Join Invisible No More TV on Facebook	Submit Your Invisible No More Story
Order Invisible No More T-Shirts and More	Order Invisible No More Wristbands

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: awareness, disability, doctors and nurses, Dysautonomia, illness, inspiration, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, personal story, POTS, spreading the word, support, video

Invisible No More: Teri Sluder

November 1, 2011 By admin 1 Comment

This video features the story of Teri Sluder, who lives with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, hemialegic migraine, severe cognitive dysfunction and severe tachycardia. Teri is known as Justter on her YouTube Channel where she provides awareness and support to others.

Learn More About Invisible No More TV	Go to Invisible No More TV Channel
Join Invisible No More TV on Facebook	Submit Your Invisible No More Story
Order Invisible No More T-Shirts and More	Order Invisible No More Wristbands

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: awareness, disability, illness, inspiration, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, loved ones, myalgic encephalomyelitis, pain, personal story, spreading the word, support, tachycardia

Invisible No More: Laurie Cohen

October 24, 2011 By admin Leave a Comment

This video features the story of Laurie Cohen, who lives with neuropathy in her pelvis, as a result of a car accident. Because Laurie is unable to sit and must stand or lie down, she calls this her “Sitting Disability.” Laurie is a volunteer DJ at her local college, KSCU Santa Clara 103.3, where she recorded a Public Service Announcement about IDA in order to create more awareness about invisible disabilities. Visit her Facebook Page.

Learn More About Invisible No More TV	Go to Invisible No More TV Channel
Join Invisible No More TV on Facebook	Submit Your Invisible No More Story
Order Invisible No More T-Shirts and More	Order Invisible No More Wristbands

About

Filed Under: Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: awareness, disability, injury, invisible disabilities, neuropathy, pain, personal story, sitting disability

Invisible No More: Tell Your Story

October 15, 2011 By admin 3 Comments

This campaign was launched by the Invisible Disabilities Association to bring awareness to the challenges of living with invisible disabilities, education to friends and family and support to those living with debilitating conditions.

Go on a journey with these incredible warriors and let their invisible challenges and battles, as well as determination, strength and true grit become Invisible No More!

Learn More About Invisible No More TV	Go to Invisible No More TV Channel
Join Invisible No More TV on Facebook	Submit Your Invisible No More Story
Order Invisible No More T-Shirts and More	Order Invisible No More Wristbands

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: awareness, campaign, disability, event, illness, injury, inspiration, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, non-profit, outreach, pain, personal story, project, support, video

Invisible No More: Margaret Ferrante, MD

October 15, 2011 By admin Leave a Comment

Through the Invisible No More! Campaign, the Invisible Disabilities Association is bringing awareness, compassion and belief to millions living with debilitating conditions, shining a light on the “invisible” and making these valuable, incredible people Invisible No More!

This video features the story of Margaret Ferrante, MD, a woman who lives with injuries from a car accident and Dysautonomia. Dr. Margaret is the author of the book, No More Tears: A Physician Turned Patient Inspires Recovery. You can find Dr. Margaret on her YouTube Channel, DysautonomiaMD and on her website, DysautonomiaMD.

Learn More About Invisible No More TV	Go to Invisible No More TV Channel
Join Invisible No More TV on Facebook	Submit Your Invisible No More Story
Order Invisible No More T-Shirts and More	Order Invisible No More Wristbands

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: advocate, awareness, campaign, disability, doctors and nurses, Dysautonomia, illness, injury, inspiration, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, personal story, project, support, video

Invisible No More: Pete Monfre

October 15, 2011 By admin 2 Comments

This video features the story of Pete Monfre, a man who lives with Crohn’s Disease. Pete is the Interim Executive Director/President of ENZoology. Enzoology Education’s mission is to inspire elementary and middle school students to seek careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.

Learn More About Invisible No More TV	Go to Invisible No More TV Channel
Join Invisible No More TV on Facebook	Submit Your Invisible No More Story
Order Invisible No More T-Shirts and More	Order Invisible No More Wristbands

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: awareness, campaign, crohn's disease, disability, illness, injury, inspiration, invisible disabilities, Invisible No More!, pain, personal story, project, support, video

PSA for IDA by DJ Fairy on KSCU Santa Clara 103.3 FM

DJ with Invisible Disability Educates Community About IDA

September 1, 2011 By admin 6 Comments

Several weeks ago, the Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA) was contacted by a young lady, Laurie Cohen, who is a DJ for a college radio station. She wanted to do a PSA (Public Service Announcement) to spread more awareness about debilitating illness and pain and the outreach of IDA.

After connecting with Laurie, we knew we wanted to tell her story. Laurie, 31, has neuropathy in her pelvis. She has been suffering from this permanent condition for 3 years, after she was rear ended in a car accident. She has severe neuropathic pain as well as loss of sensation in her pelvis. The severe pelvic pain prevents her from being able to sit.

Laurie said, “I have a ‘sitting disability;’ I can only lay down or stand up. This disability effects every aspect of my life.”

Here are just a few examples: Laurie has to stand up to get her hair cut, she lays down or stands up to eat meals, she stands up at the movie theater (she recently stood for two hours to see the new Harry Potter film).

Laurie shared. “It is a very tiresome disability and the worst part is that I ‘look’ completely normal so people either don’t understand or think I’m lying when I explain my disability.”

Last spring (2011), Laurie became a community volunteer for her local college radio station, KSCU Santa Clara 103.3 FM – The Underground Sound. According to Laurie, this is one of the only college radio stations that accepts DJ’s who are not students. She does a 1 hour radio show Friday evenings, which she considers a very enjoyable hobby.

Laurie commented, “My other chronic condition is major depression, so as you can imagine being a DJ is quite helpful!”

Laurie’s show is called, Fairyland and she goes by the name, “DJ Fairy.” It is a specialty radio show where she plays 1960′s “flower power” music, which she describes as “Mostly lesser known / obscure artists.” It seems that the college students and her community are thoroughly enjoying her program, because Laurie noted, “I have been getting great feedback about my radio show!”

It sounds like Laurie has really found a wonderful outlet to express her talents and music, as well as finding joy in the journey! Thank you, Laurie for spreading awareness about others living with invisible disabilities!

ARTICLE RESOURCES:

KSCU Santa Clara 103.3 FM – The Underground Sound

DJ Fairy on Facebook

About

Filed Under: Awareness, Invisible No More, Personal Stories Tagged With: advocate, audio, awareness, disability, injury, invisible disabilities, neuropathy, pain, personal story, radio, spreading the word