From: Patrick Hummert (troop_765@YAHOO.COM)
Date: Mon Jul 03 2000 - 12:53:12 CDT
--- Pam Glidden
Dear Pam....
Thanks for taking the time!
Your comments, as well as your concerns are viewed by
this Scoutmaster as a worth while reading of important
facts.... Something that all too often is lost on
here!
I have been involved with our Troop for over 8 1/2
years now and have had the pleasures to meet and work
with several Scouts that require medication for AD/HD
and simpler problems. I also work with a community
based Mental Health provider in St Louis Mo. that does
outreach efforts for adults, doing so for over 11
years.
During the time that I have worked with persons that
suffer from various mental illnesses, I have learned
that when persons have been effectively diagnosed,
educated and provided with the right medications,
theirs lives can and often dose improve!
To the average, otherwise untrained person....no slam
intended.... What appears and "bad side-affects", are
really "trade offs" for peaceful and happier lives.
Yes, it is hard to see some of the affects that can be
experienced by a few....but all too often, they are
willing to endure so as to have the ability to be
accepted within the community.
I can not support a goal more the efforts of any
company, school, or agency willing to work toward ways
in which those that need the help, can improve their
lives! I say strongly...."Until you walked in their
shoes...don't judge...."
The good news is that major improvements continue to
be made in the quality and benefits of various
medications! And... many of the improved meds have
less side-affects!
Please take the time to learn what each of you can do
to insure that those that need Scouting the most...get
the chance to grow and learn about themselves!
I am happy to report that I have seen several young
men make their Eagle Rank in our Troop that all too
often, would have been written off by those who are
too afraid to get involved!
And too....At times, I have worked closely with
Scouts, their parents, and at times their doctors, to
develop a clear understanding as to when the "Educated
Scout" can make good choices as to be able to deal
with Scouting while enjoying the freedom...if only for
a single...well supervised day... to take a "vacation"
from the use of their medication.
This is done with the approval of parents and doctors!
I realize that to some, that sounds risky...
to others...its a dream!
Each of us must be willing to grow and learn to be
able to support all persons who want to TRY. Then
too, we need to be open that others are not able to!
Being willing to accept our own limitations toward
this area is just as important! But in doing
so...please take the time to not cause the alarm bells
to ring out in panic!
Learning of the special needs of some Scouts can make
all the difference in a person learning to be
productive in your community in years to come! Don't
spend all your time looking for "the easy kids" to
watch grow up!
I for one, propose that each of you open up at least
enough as to have well educated persons present the
faces at a Round Table Program. That way you can each
get and share the real faces and valued knowledge that
can change lives!
Thanks again...for the respectful support for those in
need!
Keep Scouting Fun For All!
Pat Hummert, SM
Troop765, GSLAC
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