The Maguire Meservey College of Health and Human Services welcomed three passionate advocates for Supported Decision Making (SDM) to their interprofessional education and collaboration panel.
SDM, an alternative to guardianship, allows adults, including those with disabilities and elders, to maintain their rights, dignity, and independence by choosing one or more trusted supporters to assist in making decisions about their lives.
Jonathan Gardner, a self-advocate and decision-maker, person with autism and cancer survivor, discussed the importance that Supported Decision-making (SDM) has made in his life. He was joined on the panel by Nancy Gardner, his mother and support person, and Maura Sullivan, the Director of Government Affairs for The Arc of Massachusetts.
Legislators Joan Lovely and Paul Tucker have both introduced bills to establish Supported Decision Making in Massachusetts.
The Maguire Meservey College of Health and Human Services is deeply grateful to the panelists for sharing their stories and expertise with students, faculty and staff.