Once PARC, Now EP!C

Hey everyone! Happy transformation Tuesday! I'm sure many of you know that I write the blog for a place that goes by the name of EP!C. What many of you may not know is that it hasn't always had the same catchy name. You see, up until fairly recently, we went by the name of PARC. Both names are acronyms, meaning that each letter in the name stands for something. We went by PARC for many years. The only problem with the name was that the "R" in the name stood for a word that we no longer use as it has been deemed politically incorrect. So a few years ago, PARC got a makeover, including a name change.

Although we are now known as EP!C, we still carry on the the beliefs and morals that our founders always had. EP!C sounds way cooler anyways. And it has an excellent meaning that the world needs to know. EPIC stands for Empowering People Inspiring Capabilities. The name is a perfect fit as each of the four letters has significant meaning to all that we stand for. That's what EP!C has always done and will continue to do - empower people to do their very best each and every day and inspire the capabilities of everyone associated with us. There is no substitute for encouragement from others. This place is full of people with a smile on their face empowering individuals to give 110% day in and day out. 

Make sure you give us a like on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for regular updates regarding all things EP!C. Stay EP!C, everyone!

EP!C Respite

This week, I have a more serious topic to tackle. This isn't usually my strong suit but I'll do my my best. Over the past few weeks, there has been talk about the state of Illinois making budget cuts in several areas, including one that could potentially greatly impact the lives of many individuals associated with EP!C, including myself.

There are many people with physical or developmental disabilities who rely heavily on others to assist them with day to day tasks. I have a progressive disease that slowly weakens my muscles over time until there is nothing left. I've needed nurses to take care of me for well over ten years now. One important lesson I've learned from my situation is that we don't truly realize what we have until it's gone. It's easy to take these things for granted, so I try to be as thankful as possible. 

Simple tasks such as getting out of bed in the morning or eating lunch can cause so much frustration for me if I don't have anyone to assist me. Life with a any sort of a disability isn't easy, but who said this whole life thing was supposed to be easy? I'm usually a pretty laid back guy but, I can honestly say that I'm genuinely concerned about the well being of those with disabilities in Illinois. 

The EP!C respite center allows families to take care of their every day needs such as shopping and running errands. Families are strengthened and stress is greatly reduced because they can be 100% sure that their loved one is in good hands.

This is just another quality that makes EP!C such an awesome place.  This place continues to amaze me with the amount of love and support from the staff and volunteers. EP!C truly cares about the well being of all of their individuals. 

Make sure you give us a like on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for regular updates regarding all things EP!C. Stay EP!C, everyone!