49°
To the editor:
Over the past few years I have had the opportunity to work with and develop a genuine friendship with Rep. Kim Fawcett. She is committed to her work and to each of us when we need help or guidance in how to advocate for issues that matter, she steps in and helps.
Being the parent of three adult sons with intellectual and social challenges, including autism and other learning disabilities, I am involved in various advocacy activities.
I have become a passionate advocate for my sons and Kim has become my partner. Originally I advocated for personal care assistants (PCAs) who are involved with one of my sons through a self-directed program sponsored by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS).
At the time, a legislative bill was being acted upon by the state legislature that would be detrimental to these PCAs.I contacted my local state representative, Kim Fawcett, whom I had never met before. I found that she was very receptive toward my viewpoint on the issue, assisted me in keeping track of the bill, and provided suggestions. She ultimately voted against (contrary to her party) the bill, which impressed me and other advocates for these special people.
More recently, I teamed up with Kim to provide a local seminar for families with adults with special needs who are transitioning from school-based to state-based services.
Not always an easy transition but one Kim understands often requires extra attention to assure proper care and funding are in place.
It is meaningful for those of us who advocate for this segment of our population when elected officials support us when we call upon them.
Kim Fawcett supports her constituents, and understands, and also supports advocacy for people with special needs. Carl W. Noll
Fawcett is a four-term state representative for Fairfield's 133rd District. She is a candidate for State Senate District 28 representing Easton, Fairfield and Newtown and parts of Weston and Westport.
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