University of Iowa Health Care Center for Disabilities and Development

11/21/2025

What I’m Thankful For - Edward Esbeck

This season, we’re celebrating the gratitude shared by members of the CDD team.

Today, we highlight Edward (Ed) Esbeck, Behavioral Health Coordinator and dedicated self-advocate.

Ed shared, “I am thankful that I work with amazing people in many aspects of my work.”

At the Center for Disabilities and Development, Ed plays a vital role in supporting individuals with disabilities and championing meaningful change. He has been deeply involved in the LEND program and continually encourages others to embrace self-advocacy and find their voice.

We are truly grateful to have Ed on the CDD team - his passion, leadership, and
kindness make a difference every day. 💛

11/21/2025

The Iowa Family Leadership Training Institute is inviting parents and primary caregivers of children and youth with special needs to apply for a special leadership training. Training runs next March through May. Download flyer: https://links.iowacompass.org/43GOEaR

11/21/2025

Find a group here: https://www.askresource.org/inpersonsupportgroup

Join ASK Resource Center this fall for their free ASK Each Other In-Person Support Groups happening across Iowa!

These monthly meetups are a safe, welcoming space where parents and caregivers of children with disabilities can connect, share experiences, and support one another.

🗓️ November’s Topic: FAQ About IEPs — plus anything else group members bring to discuss
🗓️ December’s Topic: How to Prepare for Your Child’s IEP Meeting or Medical Appointment — plus anything else group members bring to discuss

📍 Held in communities across Iowa
💬 No registration required — just show up!
🔗 Find a group near you: https://www.askresource.org/inpersonsupportgroup

11/21/2025

Did you know that 1 in 3 adults has prediabetes—and most don’t know it? The good news: Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented!

Here are a few steps recommended by the CDC:

- Know your risk. Take the CDC’s prediabetes risk test and talk with your provider about getting screened.
- Move more. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity each week (like brisk walking).
- Eat smart. Choose whole grains, veggies, lean proteins, and limit sugary drinks.
- Join a prevention program. The CDC’s National Diabetes Prevention Program helps people cut their risk in half through lifestyle support.

At the Center for Disabilities and Development (CDD), we believe everyone deserves access to the tools and care they need to live a healthy, full life.

Learn more: www.cdc.gov/diabetes/prevention

11/13/2025

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week

This week, we recognize the challenges faced by individuals and families experiencing hunger and homelessness—and reaffirm our commitment to connecting Iowans with the support they need.

At the Center for Disabilities and Development (CDD), we know that access to stable housing, nutritious food, and supportive services are essential to overall health and community inclusion.
If you or someone you know is facing hunger or homelessness, here are a few Iowa-based resources that can help:

Housing & Homelessness Support
Iowa Finance Authority – Homelessness Programs: https://www.iowafinance.com/homelessness
United Way 211: Dial 211 or visit https://www.211iowa.org to find local emergency shelters, rental assistance, and housing support.

Food Assistance
Food Bank of Iowa: https://foodbankiowa.org
Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP): https://hacap.org

Iowa Compass can also help connect people with local food pantries, housing programs, and disability-related services across the state. Visit www.iowacompass.org or call 1-800-779-2001 to find resources in your community.

Together, we can work toward a future where every Iowan has access to safe housing, healthy food, and opportunities to thrive.

11/12/2025

It’s Purple Tuesday!

Today we’re joining the global movement to celebrate accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities — and to ask an important question:

What’s one thing your organization can do to promote accessibility?

At the Center for Disabilities and Development (CDD), we know accessibility is about more than compliance — it’s about creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where everyone can participate fully. From improving website accessibility and offering plain-language materials to providing disability awareness training, every small step makes a big difference.

Your action could be as simple as:
- Adding alt text to images
- Reviewing color contrast on materials
- Ensuring videos include captions
- Making meeting spaces physically and digitally accessible

Join us in committing to one new action this Purple Tuesday — because accessibility benefits everyone.

11/11/2025

Let’s shine a light on epilepsy — a neurological condition that affects 1 in 26 people in the United States.
Fast Facts About Epilepsy:
- Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder that causes recurring, unprovoked seizures.
- Over 3.4 million people in the U.S. live with epilepsy — including 470,000 children.
- Seizures can look different for everyone — from staring spells to full-body convulsions.
- The cause is unknown in about half of all cases.
- People with disabilities and chronic health conditions are at a higher risk of developing epilepsy.
- The same treatment does not work for everyone.

Stigma and misunderstanding remain major barriers for many individuals with epilepsy.

You can help:
- Learn seizure first aid: https://www.cdc.gov/epilepsy/first-aid-for-seizures/index.html
- Share accurate information.
- Support inclusion in schools, workplaces, and communities.

11/09/2025

Meet the People Behind Iowa Compass

Chelsey Scanlon – Program Manager

As Program Manager for Iowa Compass, Chelsey oversees the statewide program that connects Iowans to disability, aging, and health-related resources. She leads the team that answers calls, updates and maintains the extensive resource database, and collaborates with community partners to ensure information is accurate, accessible, and easy to find. Her work helps thousands of Iowans live more independently in their communities every year.

“I love being part of a team that makes a real difference every day. It’s rewarding to know we help people find the information and resources they need.”

Outside of work, Chelsey enjoys spending time with her husband and children, cheering on the Hawkeyes, and exploring new local coffee shops.

11/07/2025

Diabetes and Disability: Understanding the Connection

People with disabilities are at a higher risk of developing diabetes, and often face unique barriers to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

Barriers can include:
- Limited access to transportation for medical appointments.
- Difficulty accessing healthy foods or finding affordable nutrition options.
- Lack of accessible health information in formats like plain language, large print, or screen-reader compatible materials.
- Challenges with communication between patients and providers.
- Physical barriers in clinics or pharmacies that make care harder to access.

These barriers can make it harder to manage diabetes, but inclusive health systems can make a big difference.

At the Center for Disabilities and Development, we believe everyone deserves access to the tools, education, and support they need to live a healthy life. By prioritizing accessibility and equity in healthcare, we can help remove barriers and create better outcomes for all Iowans.

Learn more about inclusive diabetes care at cdc.gov/diabetes/disability.html

11/06/2025

November is Epilepsy Awareness Month

Epilepsy affects more than 3.4 million people in the United States, making it one of the most common neurological conditions, yet it’s often misunderstood. This month, we raise awareness, share stories, and promote inclusion for individuals living with epilepsy.

Did you know?
- About 1 in 26 people will develop epilepsy at some point in their lives.
- Epilepsy can affect anyone, regardless of age or background.
- With proper treatment and support, most people with epilepsy can lead full, active lives.

At the Center for Disabilities and Development, we’re committed to advancing understanding, reducing stigma, and supporting inclusive health care for all Iowans with neurological and developmental conditions.

Together, we can make Iowa more inclusive for everyone.

Learn more about epilepsy and seizure first aid at cdc.gov/epilepsy.

11/04/2025

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month

Diabetes impacts millions of people across the United States, including many individuals with disabilities and chronic health conditions. This month, we raise awareness about prevention, early detection, and management to help people live healthy, full lives.

Did you know?
- Nearly 38 million Americans have diabetes, and 1 in 5 don’t know they have it.
- People with disabilities may face additional barriers to diabetes prevention and care - from limited transportation to challenges accessing accessible healthcare information.
- Small changes, like healthy eating, regular movement, and routine screenings, can make a big difference.

At the Center for Disabilities and Development, we’re committed to improving access to inclusive health care for all Iowans. Together, we can build healthier communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Learn more about diabetes prevention and resources through the CDC’s Diabetes Portal: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/index.html

10/30/2025

Staff Spotlight: Kimberly Chance, Data Analyst at Iowa Compass

“One of the greatest joys of working at Iowa Compass is being part of a team that’s truly passionate about making a difference.” For Kimberly Chance, that passion shines through in every detail of her work.

As a Data Analyst on the Compass database team, Kimberly collaborates with community partners to keep agency listings accurate and up to date—ensuring people across Iowa can easily find the resources they need. While juggling multiple projects can be challenging, she says the team has developed “smart workflows that boost productivity and make our efforts more impactful.”

Outside of work, Kimberly loves spending time with her family outdoors, enjoying the beauty of nature.