Reflections
As part of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center's 50th anniversary celebration, families, researchers, staff, trainees, and others shared their reflections. View a sample below, and select "more" to view additional comments.
| A reflection from a family |
 | The Kennedy Center has been so important to our family. Our son Seth who is now 25 was born with Williams syndrome, which presents both physical and cognitive challenges. The programs at the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center have focused on Seth’s abilities and highlighted his talents. Seth has participated for the past 9 years in a music camp for individuals with Williams syndrome, which takes place in Nashville at the Kennedy Center with the campers writing and performing a song at the Grand Ole Opry and participating in research during the week. It has been transformative for Seth and he has made life-long friends through these amazing opportunities. Becky and Chris Link - Parents See More... |
| A reflection from a trainee |
 | The VKC has become a home to my family in the few short years since my daughter’s birth. We’ve benefited in countless ways from its research, professional training (I was a LEND Family Trainee), workshops, and other community programs. I also have the opportunity to learn and give back to the Center as part of the Community Advisory Council and the Public Policy Committee. The VKC has been an incredible resource to me as a parent but has also been critical in my development as a professional, helping me to become a voice for other families through special education advocacy. From both perspectives, I cannot overstate the importance of the Center’s role in creating more meaningful and productive lives for people like my daughter, and I am proud to be part of an organization that continues to lead this charge both locally and nationally. Christine Sartain - Parent, LEND Trainee, and Disability Advocate See More... |
| A reflection from a researcher |
 | Developmental disorders are devastating at the levels of individual, family and society. Despite this, developmental brain disorders remain greatly understudied and poorly understood to date. I strongly believe that with joint research and administrative efforts we can make a difference in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. I want to be a small piece of the solution. I want to know that I contributed something to a future intervention that will change the lives of individuals with developmental brain disabilities. Integrating research efforts is a first step toward developing effective treatments of developmental disorders. Also needed is integration among families, clinicians, researchers, administrative agencies, and various social groups. Together, and only together, we can achieve amazing things. Through the existence and vision of the Kennedy Center we integrate our efforts, ideas, hopes and dreams. Karoly Mirnics, M.D., Ph.D. - Psychiatry See More... |
| A reflection from a professional |
 | Recently a mother shared with me that over four decades ago she gave birth to a baby girl with Down syndrome. The medical staff and others strongly encouraged her to give her daughter over to an institution as it was the best option at the time. While in the hospital a social worker from the Kennedy Center discussed services and resources available to her if she chose to keep her child in her care. As a result of their conversation she decided to raise her child with the support of her family and this Center. This family is currently thriving in their community. To work somewhere that touches people’s lives on such an incredible level is an experience I am very fortunate to be part of. Sarah Harvey - VKC Disability Professional See More... |
Submit your reflection here