Thank you to everybody for your feedback and your continuous support.
- Rena
Hi Rena,
I just took a look at your updated photos and dedication its beautiful.
I think its such a great site and I feel you will do well. Its great
that your taking part in that 8 week session on abusive woman. I am
proud of you.
- Diana D.
Very motivating web site. I went through it all. I've
always known of your willingness to be independent and
live your life the way you want to..and after surfing
through your website - I can trully see that you have
succeeded in many facets of life.
- Tom
Awesome job hon!!!! I am SO proud of you, it is very informative and obviously a project of love.
I can't wait to see what else you add. Keep up the great work. luv ya Xoxoxoxo
- Paula
Rena- your website looks great!
- Patricia
Great site Rena! Well laid out and thought provoking. Thank you for sharing that with me.
I will recommend it to others in my community here in the Greater Vancouver Area.
I am glad that you are doing well.
- Hugs from Cary
I really like the website!!! When's the next VEGAS trip?????
- Mike
Rena, your experiences and stories are very thought-provoking and I'm certain you will continue to succeed
and have the independence for which you've worked so hard! It's a pleasure to have been able to help with the site!
- Dan
Hi Rena. I read, and saw your new pic's. Soooo proud of you. I love your all the hard work that you have put into this.
I teared when I read about your parents..... I can't wait for your new book to come out. I'll definitely buy it.
I have never read a book in my life, but I will for sure be interested to read your book.
- Love always, Mary
Testimonials from Parents, Youth and Services Providers
We were thrilled to have Rena speak at our December 2007 Workshop, "Letting Go" for Parents of Children with Cerebral Palsy. Her honesty and approachable attitude made for a very comfortable environment where parents felt safe to share their concerns and ask questions. I was very pleased at Rena's storytelling abilities; she has a wonderful way using her own personal stories to help others understand their own situation. After listening to Rena, parents left our workshop with more confidence in their children's abilities.
- Person-Centered Planning Coordinator, Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy
I first heard Rena present at a workshop for families who have children with Cerebral Palsy. During the presentation, we saw a young woman who has overcome personal limitations to create an awareness around her of just how limitless the possibilities are for those who are willing to work toward independence. Her contributions are such that no one can come away from her seminar untouched by her words and accomplishments. I urge you to take advantage of this most incredible young woman and arrange for her involvement in future plans and workshops involving people with disabilities in our community. As a parent I have benefited from hearing Rena's experiences in the sense that I expect more of my son as an individual than I might have before.
- A Parent who attended a workshop at the Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy
Organizations should take advantage of this "disability positive" workshop. The "Understanding Independence" workshop provides Youth a positive and empowering approach to Independent Living. Through small and large group activities participants focus on abilities and learn from each others lived experiences. Facilitator draws upon personal experiences, using her own life as a model of Independent Living.
- Program Manager, Active and Able Programs, Birchmount Bluffs Neighborhood Centre
Through this workshop I learned, I can be independent.. I just need to believe in myself and my dreams can come true!
- Youth
The Understanding Independence workshop educates other Youth about independence and may help some people with their journey towards independence.
- Youth
We all worry about our children, especially if they have a disability. At the age of 26, Rena came to us and said she had a find a place to live and was moving out. Naturally we were considered. Who would "take care" of her and why did she want to leave her home. Rena explained she wanted to start building a life of her own. With some hesitation we supported our daughter's decision and we are proud to say that Rena is living a productive and fulfilled life! As parents we need to believe in children's Abilities and support their Dreams!
- Steve and Elizabeth Nikou