The DD News Blog

News, information, and commentary for families and friends of people with developmental disabilities.

About Me

Jill Barker: I am the mother of two sons with profound physical and intellectual disabilities. Danny (1976 - 2022) died of complications from his multiple disabilities. Ian, born in 1985, lives in a group home in Ypsilanti, Michigan. I support choice, meaning the availability of a full range of services and settings to meet the diverse needs of people with IDD. For those who cannot speak for themselves, the best advocate is a parent, other family member, or close friend who is aware of the individual's needs and cares deeply about what happens to the person. Guardianship is often the best means to assure the rights of people who cannot exercise their rights on their own behalf. VOR Member; Just Us Club Board of Directors (an activity program in Ann Arbor, MI); former President of Friends of DD, Washtenaw County, MI; Former member of Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council 2013 to 2016.