Helen Editorial: Dr. Rick Rader

A lesson from Neanderthal history reveals that compassion and caregiving for people with disabilities may be as old as humanity itself—reminding us that empathy and inclusion have deep evolutionary roots.

A Doll Like Me, Dr. Steve Perlman

See how Barbie evolved from a fashion doll into a symbol of representation—sparking debate about body image while expanding to include disabilities, medical conditions, and neurodiversity in toys.

Donna M. McDonald-McGinn, MS, LCGC

Follow Louis’s journey with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome while learning how this common yet often overlooked genetic condition affects the heart, immune system, and development—and why early diagnosis can change lives.

A Conversation with Dr. Cathy Makobe-Chiloane

A South African dentist shares how advocacy, education, and compassion are expanding access to oral healthcare for patients with disabilities—and why more dentists must open their doors to people with special healthcare needs.

Jennifer Guan, Daniel O-Donnell, and Eva Adib

Explore how inclusive research—where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities serve as co-researchers—can deepen understanding, strengthen healthcare communication, and build a true culture of belonging.

Megan E. Leimkuhler, Heather J. Williamson, Dasha Migunov, Courtney Clyatt, and Meghan Warren

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) funds research comparing treatments and health practices while engaging patients, families, and the IDD community in shaping healthcare decisions.

Kathleen M. Bishop, Ph.D.

A reflection on bullying, language, and the lasting harm of the “r-word,” highlighting why thoughtful word choices are essential for dignity, respect, and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities.

Dr. Allen Wong

The Bangkok Declaration calls for global action to integrate oral health into universal health coverage by 2030. This editorial urges policymakers and researchers to ensure people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are included in oral health research and care.

Denise Baker

Blind since birth, Denise shares how accessible technology through Vinfen’s TechConnect program expanded her independence—from navigating the community to choosing her clothes—and why access to digital tools matters.

Dr. Seth M. Keller and Andrew Levitas, M.D

Aggression in people with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism is often treated as behavioral—but it may signal underlying medical or neurologic conditions. Recognizing these causes can improve diagnosis and care.

Denise Grady, New York Times

Dr. Marthe Gautier, who discovered the extra chromosome causing Down syndrome, died on April 30, 2022, at age 96, having long fought for recognition after her male colleague, Dr. Jérôme Lejeune, took credit for her work.

James T. Brett

A new Massachusetts bill aims to remove the “r-word” and other outdated terms from state law, reinforcing the power of respectful language and advancing dignity, inclusion, and people-first terminology for individuals with disabilities.

Theo Braddy

A personal reflection on resilience after a spinal cord injury and the unexpected path from hardship to national leadership, showing how life’s setbacks can become the beginning of something greater.

Elena Salgado

A review of From Shack to White House highlights Theo W. Braddy’s journey from poverty to national disability advocacy, showing how resilience, faith, and personal tragedy shaped his leadership and impact on policy.

A Round-up of Journals Published Around the World

An Adult Autism Training for Resident Physicians, Sight Restored to People Blinded in Eye Accidents, Informed Consent, and more.

Alone we can do so little; Together we can do so much.

DSP Workforce as a Social Determinant of Health, Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference, Oral Health Integration in Kenya, NIH Disability Research Priorities, World Down Syndrome Day, and more.