Download Welcome Remarks: Jane Ryder Deputy Commissioner Department

“Focus” on Vision Impairment &
Blindness Conference
11th Annual
Meeting the Needs of Individuals with Intellectual
Disability & Vision Loss
March 9, 2016
8:00 am - 3:30 pm
Four Points by Sheraton, Norwood, MA
Welcome Remarks: Jane Ryder
Deputy Commissioner
Department of Developmental Services
Keynote Speaker: Randy Pierce
President, 2020 Vision Quest
”Reaching Our Peak Potential”
Awards at Lunch:
Mark Holt “Gift of Lunch”
Paul McDade “Focus” Award for Distinguished Service
Paul McDade “Focus” Award for Distinguished Leadership
“Focus” on Talent!!!
Special Closing Performance by: “MAI Group Inc.”
A Very Special Thank You…
Lead Sponsor:
Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
Sponsors:
Perkins Training Center
DDS Southeast Region Training Council
Friends:
New England College of Optometry
Shriver Clinical Services
To Our Exhibitors Including:
Vendors:
AdaptiVision/Optelec
American Printing House for the Blind
Carroll Center for the Blind
Easter Seals Massachusetts
Helen Keller National Center
Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
MA State 911 Department
New England Consortium for Deafblind Technical Assistance
New England Index
Perkins eLearning
Perkins Library
Perkins Solutions
UMass Amherst University without Walls
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A Very Special Thank You…
To Our Exhibitors Including:
Literature Table:
Eye Care America
Hadley School for the Blind
Independent Living Aids
LS&S
MaxiAids
National Eye Institute
National Institute on Aging
Prevent Blindness America
and more…
Poster Displays:
Play the Day Away: Utilizing Music Therapy for Relaxation,
Self-Awareness, and Socialization
Lisa A. El-Lakis, MT-BC
DDS/Hogan Regional Center
How Technology Made My Job Accessible for Me
Diana Julian
DDS/Plymouth Area Office
E-News: Employment News You Can Use
Kerri Moran
Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
Self Advocacy
Yashira Correa
People, Incorporated - Fall River
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Poster Displays: (continued)
Postural Care for Individuals with Intellectual Disability
Mary S. Clark RPT, COMS, ATP
Northeast Residential Services, DDS
Integrative Movement Therapy (Yoga/Pilates)
Tina Sorel, PT
Erin Dalton, PTA
Crystal Springs, Inc
DPPC
Jennifer Edwards-Hawkins
Disabled Persons Protection Commission
Let’s Walk Together
Tony Miranda, Orientation & Mobility Assistant
EDCO/Wrentham Developmental Center
Providing Exceptional Eye Care to Children and Adults with
Intellectual Disability
New England Eye Southeastern Massachusetts
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Introducing our Keynote:
Randy Pierce
During two short but significant weeks in
1989, a devastating neurological disease
transformed Randy Pierce from a healthy and
ordinary man to a blind man completely
uncertain of his future. Randy’s passion for
experience encouraged him to utilize
adversity as a positive catalyst for growth
and opportunity, resulting in such amazing
adventures as earning his second-degree
black belt, making history as a blind hiker,
and his induction into the “VISA Hall of Fans”
at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Randy earned his BSEE from the University of
New Hampshire and enjoyed a successful
career at Digital Equipment Corporation as a
hardware design engineer. The practical
challenges of blindness encouraged Randy to pursue other productive opportunities.
These included tutoring children and adults, teaching martial arts, advising on adaptive
technology, and consulting for The Library of Congress.
Today Randy holds the positions of Founder and President of 2020 Vision Quest, ViceChair of the Board of Directors of New Hampshire Association for the Blind, and First
Vice President of the Hudson, NH Lions Club. The University of New Hampshire’s
Alumni Association has named Randy as its 2014 winner of the Award of Excellence for
Outstanding Achievement. Randy provides motivational speaking presentations to
corporations, schools, and non-profit organizations. Some notable presentations, of the
hundreds Randy has provided, include Google, TJX, Yankee Candle, and Bank of New
Hampshire.
Four compelling documentaries highlight Randy’s historical hiking achievements; the
founding of 2020 Vision Quest; and his New England Patriot fandom. The latter
documentary was nominated for a Sports Emmy Award. Randy has been on multiple
national television shows, most notably Rosie O’Donnell, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and The
Best Damn Sports Show Period.
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Conference Agenda “At-a-Glance”
8:00 – 8:25
Registration / Vendors Open / Refreshments
8:25 – 8:30
Opening Remarks
8:30 – 8:45
Welcome Remarks
8:45 – 9:45
Keynote
9:45 – 10:00
Break / Exhibits Open
10:00 – 11:00
1st Concurrent Session
11:00 – 11:15
Break / Exhibits Open
11:15 – 12:15
2nd Concurrent Session
12:15 – 12:30
Exhibits Open
12:30 – 1:30
Lunch & Award Presentations:
● Mark Holt Gift of Lunch
● Paul McDade “Focus” Awards for Distinguished
Service and Leadership
1:30 – 2:00
Dedicated Time for Exhibits Session
2:00 - 3:00
3rd Concurrent Session
3:00 – 3:15
Break / Refreshments / Exhibits Open
3:15 – 3:45
“Focus” On Talent!!! (Performance) / Raffle
Directions!!!
Four Points by Sheraton Norwood
1125 Boston-Providence Turnpike
Route 1 (18 miles south of Boston)
Norwood, MA 02062
Phone: 781-769-7900
www.fourpointsnorwood.com
Please see page 16 for a full listing of directions!!!!
We look forward to seeing you on March 9th!!!
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“Focus” on Vision Impairment & Blindness
8:00 – 8:25
Registration / Exhibits Open / Refreshments
8:30 – 8:45
Welcome Remarks:
Jane Ryder
Deputy Commissioner, DDS
8:45 – 9:45
Keynote:
Randy Pierce
President, 20/20 Vision Quest
”Reaching Our Peak Potential”
Using personal experiences developed through his transition from fully
sighted to total blindness, Randy will demonstrate the methodology which
enabled him to strive for and achieve his peak potential both figuratively
and literally. Anecdotal references are a fundamental part of the goal
setting, problem solving and perseverance means by which risk
manipulation can help any of us strive to achieve a vision beyond our sight
as we all reach for our Peak potential.
9:45 – 10:00
Break / Exhibits Open
10:00 – 11:00 Concurrent Sessions
A.
Glaucoma: An Overview for Patients and Caregivers
Presenter: Bridget C. Hendricks, OD, MS, FAAO
Assistant Professor of Optometry, NECO
Attending Optometrist, New England Eye
Description: This presentation will provide an overview of Glaucoma, a
complex eye disease in which damage to the optic nerve leads to
progressive and irreversible blindness. We will discuss risk factors,
signs/symptoms, tests that are performed to diagnose and evaluate
glaucoma, treatment, and patient resources. This presentation will allow
patients, health care providers, and caregivers to better understand risks,
detection, and management of glaucoma.
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10:00 – 11:00 Concurrent Sessions (continued)
B.
Yoga for Everyone! Individuals with Intellectually Disability and
Their Service Providers.
Presenter: Lynne Bridges, COMS, CYI (Certified Yoga Instructor)
Carroll Center for the Blind
Description: Yoga can be practiced by anyone. It has been used for
centuries to enhance health and wellbeing: physical, emotional and
mental. This presentation will share some of the ways I have used yoga to
enjoy movement with my students, while simultaneously improving
physical, emotional and mental health. This presentation will also consider
simple practices for people working with special populations to decrease
stress and enhance focus.
C.
Cerebral/Cortical Vision Impairment and Adults
Presenters: Barry S Kran, OD, FAAO
Professor, NECO
Clinic Director, NE Eye Low Vision Clinic at Perkins
Luisa Mayer, PhD
Clinical Assistant Professor, Harvard Medical School
Associate Professor, NECO
Visual Fields/Functional Vision Specialist, NE Eye Low Vision
Clinic at Perkins
Darick W Wright, MA, COMS, CLVT
Adjunct faculty, Vision Studies Program, UMass- Boston
Adjunct, Assistant Professor, NECO
Clinic Coordinator, NE Eye Low Vision Clinic at Perkins
Description:
Many adults with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) have other
impairments that include vision. Vision impairment relative to ocular
causes is well known and is being increasingly diagnosed. What has only
recently come to the attention of providers is the possibility of brain based
visual impairment. This is the leading cause of pediatric blindness in the
developed world and is likely underappreciated in our adult population of
adults with ID. This introductory lecture will provide a basic understanding
of the differences between an ocular and brain based visual impairment, a
pragmatic differentiation between cortical and cerebral visual impairment
and case examples of how we determine the presence of CVI. Resources
will work-arounds will also be provided.
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10:00 – 11:00 Concurrent Sessions (continued)
D.
Community Inclusion for Individuals with Vision and Additional
Disabilities
Presenter: Stephen Perreault
New England Representative - Helen Keller National Center
Description: This presentation will focus on a process and plan to expand
inclusion in community-based social/recreation activities for individuals with
visual and/or multiple disabilities. The content will be based on personcentered planning to identify personal preferences in developing individual
planning. Presentation will include strategies for addressing access/support
needs and provide suggestions for achievement of successful outcomes.
E.
New Products and Services
Five different companies/agencies will discuss the services and products
they provide, including assistive technology, that are helpful to individuals
with visual impairment or blindness and those who support them.
 AdaptiVision/Optelec: Traveller HD
 Perkins eLearning: Professional Development opportunities
 Perkins Solutions: Digital accessibility, emerging technology for
navigation
 Massachusetts Commission for the Blind: Benefits and Services
 New England Consortium for Deafblind Technical Assistance: Services
PLEASE NOTE: CEU’s are not offered for this session.
11:00 – 11:15 Break / Exhibits Open
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11:15 – 12:15 Concurrent Sessions
A.
Why Your Patient May Not See: A Presentation of Ocular Diseases
Commonly Seen in Patients With Intellectual and Developmental
Disability and the Currently Available Treatment
Presenter: Jean Ramsey, MD, MPH
Associate Professor for Ophthalmology and Pediatrics
Boston University School of Medicine
Vice-Chair of Education and Program Director
Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Medical Center (BMC)
Associate Dean for Alumni Affairs
Boston University School of Medicine
Description: Ocular diseases to be discussed will include cataract,
glaucoma, retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration,
retinal vascular diseases, retinopathy of prematurity, strabismus,
keratoconus, and cortical visual impairment. Treatment options will be
discussed and will include the new anti-angiogenic drugs currently being
used with dramatic results in vascular disorders.
B.
Public Speaking & Communication Skills for Improved
Self Advocacy
Presenters: Susannah Locketti, Wellness Coordinator
New England Village
Ginger Comeau, Director of Enrichment & Community Services
New England Village
Description:
This training is devoted to improving the communication
skills of the visually impaired to improve their self advocacy efforts. The
skills taught will allow an individual to gain more awareness of their
posture, body language, tone, emotions, volume, and clarity of thought
when advocating for their personal needs in small or large group settings.
Participants will have an opportunity to practice these skills in small
breakout groups as well as large group work. If you want to self advocate
effectively or support someone to do the same, this training is for you!
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11:15 – 12:15 Concurrent Sessions (continued)
C.
We See Things a Bit Differently
Presenters: Marianne Gilmore, Workforce Development Specialist
Carroll Center for the Blind
Theresa E. Kane, Ph.D., Chief Operating Officer
The Polus Center for Social & Economic Development, Inc
.
Joe R. Buizon, Employment Services Specialist
Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
Description: In the spring of 2015, The Massachusetts Commission for the
Blind funded The Carroll Center for the Blind and the Polus Center to
implement a transition to work program called Project SEARCH. Project
SEARCH combines business partners with onsite supports for a full
immersion in the workplace for individuals to gain marketable skills and
gain competitive employment.
D.
Transition Perspectives and Lessons Learned: A Candid
Discussion with Parents of Youth and Young Adults Who Have
Combined Vision and Hearing Loss
Presenter: Tracy Evans Luiselli, Ed.D.
Project Director
New England Consortium for Deafblind Technical Assistance
and Training
Description: For many parents of teenagers and young adults who have
combined vision and hearing loss, the transition from school to adult
services is often overwhelming. There are many agencies and roads to
travel, often resulting in confusion about how to access critical services
after graduation. During this session, parents will speak about their
journey, what was and was not helpful, and provide a brief roadmap of
lessons learned along the way.
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11:15 – 12:15 Concurrent Sessions (continued)
E.
Simple Assistive Technology Options for the Blind &
Visually Impaired
Presenters: Catherine Bly, Program Coordinator
Assistive Technology Regional Center,
a MassMATCH program, managed by Easter Seals
Maureen Coyle, COMS
Carroll Center for the Blind & Shriver Clinical Services
Description: Please join us to learn about a variety of wonderful devices
that help those with low vision or blindness function more effectively at
work, their day program, or in their personal life. We will review and
demonstrate each device for its functionality with our population. The
emphasis will be on devices that assist with daily living, memory,
organization, and having FUN! We plan to make this an interactive and
hands-on session with our audience. Come and have a chat with a clock!
12:15 – 12:30 Exhibits Open
12:30 – 1:30
Lunch & Award Presentations:
● Mark Holt “Gift of Lunch”
● Paul McDade “Focus” Award for Distinguished Service
● Paul McDade “Focus” Award for Distinguished Leadership
1:30 – 2:00
Dedicated Vendor & Poster Session!!!
We listened to you!!!
We have again scheduled more time after lunch for meeting
our Exhibitors, viewing the Posters, and networking. Enjoy!!!
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2:00 – 3:00 Concurrent Sessions
A.
The Power of Technology: Fundus Photography and OCT Use in
Diabetes and Macular Degeneration
Presenter: Elena Z Biffi, OD, MSc, FAAO
Assistant Clinical Professor, NECO
Staff Optometrist, South Boston Community Health Center
Description: Fundus Photography (photography of the back part of the
eye) and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) have revolutionized our
approach to retinal disease identification, diagnosis and decision making.
This lecture will introduce the mechanics of the image acquisition, as well
as will demonstrate the applicability of imaging technology in diagnosis and
management of ocular conditions. Characteristic, disease-specific Fundus
Photography and OCT patterns can be identified; these patterns will be
illustrated via engaging case presentations in the overall framework of
epidemiology, pathophysiology and clinical features for Diabetic
Retinopathy and Macular Degeneration. Furthermore, understating of
normal and abnormal retinal layer architecture will be tied to potential
visual function; in turn, these conditions will be placed in the overall
diagnostic and management framework used in day-to-day primary care
and ocular disease.
B.
Sensory Trails – What’s New in Massachusetts?
Presenters: Jerry Berrier
National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program
Perkins School for the Blind
Marcy Marchello
Universal Access Program Coordinator
Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)
Description: This session will focus primarily on the recent work of
Massachusetts Audubon in providing over 10 accessible All Persons Trails
around the state that include sensory elements and audio tours to make
outdoor educational experiences available for people with visual
impairments. Learn where these trail opportunities are, key features of
sensory trails and best practices for creating them. Other new accessible
sensory trails opportunities and adaptive hiking strategies for conventional
trails will be briefly described as well.
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2:00 – 3:00 Concurrent Sessions (continued)
C.
Focusing on Human Rights
Presenters: Teka J. Harris, M.A., BCBA, Senior Human Rights Specialist
Department of Developmental Services/Central West Region
Rebecca Christie, J.D., Human Rights Specialist
Department of Developmental Services/Northeast Region
Nathan Hoover, Human Rights Specialist
Department of Developmental Services/Southeast Region
Richard Santucci, Director, Office for Human Rights
Department of Developmental Services
Description: This presentation will offer insights into the impact of DDS
regulations, the tremendous importance of self-advocacy and success
stories from the field.
D.
Creative Teaching Strategies for Working with Deafblind
Individuals in a Residential Setting: A Case Study
Presenter: Carol Vienneau, Residential Program Manager
New England Village
Description: Staff working in residential settings are often overwhelmed by
the challenges of working with deafblind individuals. This presentation will
examine some strategies for teaching and working with individuals with
deafblindness and intellectual disabilities. Using a case study, some ideas
will be shared on how to offer choices, provide opportunities, foster
community integration, and ultimately empower the folks you work with.
E.
New Products and Services
Five different companies/agencies will discuss the services and products
they provide, including assistive technology, that are helpful to individuals
with visual impairment or blindness and those who support them.
 Perkins eLearning: professional development opportunities
 Perkins Solutions: digital accessibility, emerging technology for
navigation
 Massachusetts Commission for the Blind: benefits and services
 New England Consortium for Deafblind Technical Assistance: services
 Perkins Library: services, eligibility, and registration information
PLEASE NOTE: CEU’s are not offered for this session.
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3:00 – 3:15
Break / Refreshments / Exhibits Open
3:15 – 3:30
"Focus" On Talent!!!
Performance by the “MAI Group Inc.” will put the finishing touch on the day!
The MAI Group Inc. is a tax exempt organization under section 501 (c) (3) as of
November 15, 2012. The MAI band has been providing opportunities for people of
various abilities in music and art since its inception in October 2009. We currently
have 10 core group members who have performed in concerts together for
several years. Some members of the group are amateurs while others are veteran
musicians who have played and continue to play with other bands. MAI has
played an average of at least 60 concerts over the past 5 years in more than a
dozen towns.
MAI will continue to educate the general public and individuals with various
abilities about the value of music and arts in people’s lives, provide free
entertainment, help build character and confidence, foster friendship and above
all, have fun! MAI Group Inc. accepts donations and volunteers. For more
information and if interested, please call (508) 577-9436.
3:30 - 3:45
Closing Remarks
RAFFLE
Wonderful PRIZES!!! Must be present to WIN!
Additional Copies of this Registration Brochure:
Registration Brochure and Form can be downloaded from "Training Resources
and
Events"
section
of
the
DDS
Vision
Loss
website:
www.mass.gov/dds/visionloss and from the “Perkins eLearning Schedule”
on the Perkins website: www.perkinselearning.org/events-monthly
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Directions!!!
Four Points by Sheraton Norwood
1125 Boston-Providence Turnpike
Route 1 (18 miles south of Boston)
Norwood, MA 02062
Phone: 781-769-7900
www.fourpointsnorwood.com
From Boston and points North
Take I-93 South which turns into I-95 (Route 128) North.
Take Exit 15B, Route 1 South toward Norwood.
Travel 4.5 miles, the Four Points by Sheraton Norwood Hotel & Conference
Center will be on your right after the Staples Plaza.
From the West
Follow Mass. Turnpike (I-90) East
Take Exit 14 onto I-95 (Route 128) South. (Note: From the West, this Exit is
number 14, from the East, it is number 15.)
Continue South to Exit 15B. Route 1, Norwood,
And proceed as above.
From Providence, TF Green Airport & points South
Take I-95 North to Exit 11B, Neponset Street, Norwood.
Drive 7/10 of a mile and turn left onto Dean Street.
At traffic light, turn left onto Route 1, heading South.
The Four Points by Sheraton Norwood Hotel & Conference Center is on your right
after the Staples Plaza.
From Logan Airport
Exit airport, follow signs through Williams tunnel (toll) to I-90 /I-93 South. Follow
signs for I-93 South about 7 miles.
I-93 South turns into I-95 (Route 128) North.
Proceed on I-95(Route 128) North to Exit 15B, Route 1 Norwood.
Travel Route 1 South 4.5 miles to the Four Points by Sheraton Norwood Hotel &
Conference Center, located on your right after the Staples Plaza.
We look forward to seeing you on March 9th!!
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Planning for the “Focus” Conference
Your Notes:
Please Register Early!!!
We look forward to seeing you on March 9th!!
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Registration Information
1. Please fill out the attached form and return BY February 26, 2016 to:
Donnamaria Linfield / Shriver Clinical Services Corporation
Wrentham Developmental Center, PO Box 144
Wrentham, MA 02093
2. For questions regarding Registration, please contact
[email protected] or phone 508-384-5679.
Donnamaria:
3. Please make check payable to: Shriver Clinical Services Corporation
4. Refunds: We regret that refunds cannot be given after February 17th 2016,
unless by notification from us to you that your check (# and amount) will be
returned to you. This refund protocol will also be used if conference capacity
is reached at the time we receive your registration and payment.
5. Continuing Education Information:
Application for 4 hours of Continuing Education has been submitted to:
Academy for Certification of Vision Rehab. & Education Prof. (ACVREP)
Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRC)
An application has been made for 4 CECs for Social Workers.
An application has been made to MA Board of Registration in Nursing for
nursing continuing education.
Questions: [email protected]
NECO/NEEI has applied for 4 hours of MA CE approved credits.
Questions: Barry S. Kran, O.D.: [email protected]
Perkins Training Center will award 5 Professional Development Points (PDPs)
Questions: [email protected]
Please indicate your choice of CEUs on the registration form.
6. Scholarships are available for individuals with intellectual disability and their
families. Information: [email protected]
7. Reduced room rates of $115.00 per night, exclusive of taxes, will be available
at the Four Points by Sheraton, Norwood, phone: 781-769-7900. Please
mention Shriver Clinical. Rooms at this rate are held until February 10, 2016
and subject to availability.
8. Registration Brochure and Form can be downloaded from "Training and
Events" section of DDS Vision Loss website: www.mass.gov/dds/visionloss
and from the “Perkins Training Center Schedule” on the Perkins website:
www.perkinselearning.org/events-monthly
9. Questions please contact: [email protected] or 508-384-5539.
Please Register Early!!!
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Registration Form
Please return this form by February 26, 2016
Register early if you can!
“Focus” On Vision Impairment & Blindness
Wednesday March 9, 2016, Four Points by Sheraton, Norwood, Massachusetts
Name:
________________________________________________________________
Agency Name:
________________________________________________________________
Address:
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
Email:
Phone:
________________________________________________________________
Can we share your contact information with sponsors? Yes ___ No___
Lunch Choice: If no choice is indicated, the Vegan lunch will be ordered.
 ___ Chicken with green grapes, roasted shallots and white wine cream sauce.
Served with fingerling potatoes and roasted seasonal vegetables
OR
 ___*Grilled Eggplant with asparagus, spinach, red peppers, & butternut
squash. Rolled and cut. Served over rice pilaf. (*Vegan & Gluten Free)
Special Accommodations Needed*:_________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
* For Interpreting Services, please let us know by February 10, 2016
Concurrent Session Selection: Circle the letter of the 3 you plan to attend.
10:00 - 11:00
11:15 - 12:15
2:00 - 3:00
A B C D E
A B C D E
A B C D E
Please circle the type(s) of CE you will be requesting:
ACVREP
CRC
CEC
Nursing CEU
MA CE
PDP
Conference Rate with Lunch:
General Admittance
General Admittance
Physician (MD, DO, OD)
postmarked by 1/31/16:
postmarked after 1/31/16
$50.00
$60.00
$110.00
Check enclosed: yes___ no/reason why___________________ Amount:
Please make check payable to: Shriver Clinical Services Corporation and
mail along with this form to: Donnamaria Linfield / Shriver Clinical Services
Wrentham Developmental Center, PO Box 144, Wrentham, MA 02093
Thank You for your support!
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Lisa DiBonaventura, MA, COMS
Statewide Director for Vision & Loss Services, DDS
WDC, 131 Emerald Street, PO Box 144
Wrentham, MA 02093
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