My business, which I call Get A Life In Texas, is all about changing the world for people with disabilities and those who serve them. This is my website about self-determination: mine and yours! Because of my disabilities I lived in institutions or group homes from the age of 10 until the age of 42. Through the principles of self-determination and the wonderful people who have supported me, I now live in a place of my own and participate in all the decisions that effect my life: who works for me or lives with me, where I go and when, what I eat, where I work, etc. I feel very strongly that I have a responsibility to give back to the community and support others in their efforts to gain the freedom and sense of accomplishment I now enjoy. 

I want you to know how we are bringing about self-determination and the work we still need to do. This is our key to the future. There are five principles to self-determination: freedom, authority, support, responsibility and confirmation. For a detailed overview of each of these principles, please click on the Principles of Self-Determination.. 

Self-determination is about freedom and choices. As a self-advocate and an activist for the self-determination movement, I make many public presentations, serve on boards and committees, mentor my peers and participate in the legislative process to the full extent of my ability. I constantly promote the "money follows the person" principle where the individual can control the Medicaid or government funds budgeted for their care, and use those funds for home and community services instead of institutional care.

I am available for presentations, trainings and other activities at a reasonable fee. Please see the services page of my website for more information about my business or about self-determination.

Please contact me at ricky@getalifeintexas.com for more information about my business or about self-determination. I would love to talk with you about how YOU can have self-determination in your life or that of someone you know.

I hope you will find this website educational, enjoyable and inspiring.

Be self-determined!
Ricky