Welcome to the Adventist Special Needs Association

The freezing subzero temperatures could not cool the hearts and hospitality of the Dublin SDA Church members as they welcomed Sophia, Nigel and Christopher -James Nicholls to the Dublin SDA Church Disability Awareness day held on the  28th November 2009.

Thanks to the organisation and commitment of the coordinator in Dublin, Dorothy Mulenga, ASNA had an excellent opportunity to provide an afternoon of disability awareness training where members were encouraged to address the barriers preventing inclusion and access to services provided by the church.

Christopher - James and Dorothy

Disability awareness day in Dublin, 28th November 2009

Sophia (ASNA Trainer) and Dorothy (Dublin coordinator)

The morning service was presented by Sharon Platt MacDonald (BUC Health ministries Director). Her enthusiasm and commitment to the ministry was demonstrated through her sermon ‘at the table’.

ASNA trainers Sophia, Nigel with parent carer Mary in the middle

Mary, mother of a young boy with autism, shared her personal experience of the challenges and joys she faces every day caring for her son. Her heart- felt testimony inspired many to support her family and those within the community.

Sophia and Nigel shared their personal testimony and how their experience drew them to start ASNA.  Christopher- James their son, shared his personal experience of living with a brother with severe disabilities and being a young carer. He also described how much he enjoyed the Bright Futures summer break where he was able to meet other young carers giving him a sense of community with others living similar lives as his own.