Independence is important, and what better month to recognize that than July. This month we celebrate the independence of our country with a hugely popular and firecracking holiday on July 4th, and we also celebrate Disability Independence Day on July 26th. This latter date in 2009 signifies the 19th anniversary of the signing of the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). Another form of technology-related independence is addressed in this month's director's column which discusses how scooters and power wheelchairs, though valuable in increasing independence in daily activities, may potentially have negative implications on health. On the contrary, read this month's Community Voice and NUDGE column to learn about one reader's experience with a piece of technology that made her more independent thereby increasing her options for healthy activities.

Send your questions and comments to Blythe Hiss, NCHPAD News Editor, at sbonne2@uic.edu.