IDS participated in a disability awareness challenge sponsored by L.I.F.E. The event was called HAAC IT (Hattiesburg abilities awareness challenge). The team members were Demetra Bates, Cutley Thadison, Julie Cooke, and Cookie Smith. Demetra Bates participated in the toothbrush challenge where she was blind folded. She had to locate a toothbrush on a table, along with toothpaste. She was judged on the neatness of the toothpaste being placed on the toothbrush, how efficient she placed the cap back onto the toothpaste, and how she presented the toothbrush on the table. This challenge is something a person with vision impairment experience everyday. Cutley Thadison participated in an exercise in which an amputee experience daily as well. Cutley Thadison had to open a bottle of water using only one arm. It was surprising to her the effort it took to open the bottle. Cutley also participated in the Are you smarter than a 5th grader challenge. Many of the questions were centered around ADA. Cutley failed the 1st and 5th grade. She had an amazing time and found out things that she really didn't know before. Julie Cooke participated in the wheelchair challenge and placed 1st in both races. Cookie Smith was a judge for the challenges. Everyone had such a great time. Laughter filled the pavilion as many took part in the challenges. The IDS team placed second. We received a trophy (that is housed in Julie Cooke's office and will be passed around to each participate for their hard work), tshirts, and an information bag. Also see the Hattiesburg American write-up.
