Story Archives of 'Developmental disabilities'

Scientists have known for some time that music stimulates the brain.

Studies suggest music can help people battle depression, recover memory and become more focused.

Researchers are also looking at the possibility that playing or listening to music can help the brain heal itself.

Those potential benefits bring hope to patients and therapists alike at the Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center.

NHPR’s Dianne Finch reports.

Longtime Concord Monitor photojournalist Dan Habib debuts his film documentary, “Including Samuel”. It’s the story of Habib, his son Samuel, who has cerebral palsy, and his family’s struggle to have Samuel included as much as possible in normal childhood life.

Guests

• Dan Habib, photojournalist with the Concord Monitor. His freelance work has appeared in numerous publications, including Time, Newsweek and the New York Times. His new documentary is called “Including Samuel”.
• Cheryl Jorgensen, Project Director with the Institute on Disability and Assistant Research Professor in the Education Department at UNH.

We'll also hear from

• Jessica Gervais, Director of Exceptional Services at Pembroke Academy
• Ann and Emily Huff , two women featured in Dan Habib’s documentary. Emily is a 22 year old New Hampshire woman with schizophrenia. Ann is her mother.

Jennifer Martin of Keene says she just needs "space, a good place to live, and a cat to love." Monadnock Developmental Services helps Jennifer in her work and home life so she can be independent.

Billie Jo McEwan of Rochester has a son, Brandon, with severe developmental delays. She says she was skeptical that there was a place to help meet Brandon's needs, but the Child Development Center made her a believer.

Concord resident Marlon Curtin's daughter, Jocelyn, is unable to speak, walk or use her hands due to Rett's Syndrome. But through the Waterville Valley Adaptive Ski Program, Jocelyn can ski - and she loves it.