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Event Details
Help us Shape Support for Siblings of Individuals with WS
Siblings of people with Williams syndrome (and other disabilities) have their own unique perspectives, concerns, and need for support. As we expand our sibling-focused programs, we want to hear directly from siblings themselves. We’re hosting a series of Zoom conversations in October to gather that feedback.
These Zoom sessions will be facilitated by Dr. Carolyn Shivers, and supported by Joan Cornachio and the WSA.
Dr. Shivers is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Niagara University, where she directs the Undergraduate Minor in Disability Studies. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame with a Ph.D. in psychology from Vanderbilt University, she studies psychosocial outcomes for siblings of people with disabilities and the ways ableism shapes the lives of people with disabilities and their families.
Joan Cornachio, M.S.Ed., is an educator, disability rights advocate, and parent of a 35-year-old adult with Williams syndrome. As founder of Empowered Family Futures, she coaches families of individuals with disabilities through the emotional and relational challenges of caregiving. Joan previously served as Associate Director of Supported Decision-Making New York at Hunter College/CUNY, where she helped advance the right of people with I/DD to make their own decisions with support from people they trust.
We recognize that siblings share the concerns and successes of their loved ones with Williams syndrome. This group will be where adult siblings can gather to share fears, frustrations, and ideas as they navigate this life-long, ever-changing journey.
The group will be moderated by Varun Indugula, who lives in North Carolina with his family, including his brother Prannoy. Currently a student at UNC, his studies include neuroscience and developmental disorders.
Right now, this group is only for Adult Siblings (18+). We are creating a teen/child sibling group to be run by a professional sibling facilitator for kids.
Bookmark the SUPPORT GROUPS page to keep up to date about all FSN Support Groups!
Also, please join the Family Support Forum on the WSA's website to connect with group members between meetings and ask any other questions related to Williams syndrome. Visit williams-syndrome.org/forums/intro to get started.
If you have any questions or have specific topics you'd like to suggest, email familysupport@williams-syndrome.org.