Hi there! I’m Kathy Brill.
I was a professional in the field of education and disabilities prior to the birth of my youngest daughter. I understood the role of professionals, but had not experienced the role of parenting a child who has a disability.
I now hold the unique perspective of being able to understand both viewpoints, which led me to successfully problem-solve and create numerous solutions to barriers facing people with disabilities so they can live productively in their communities.
My youngest daughter, now 30 years old, uses a power wheelchair and numerous additional technological and personal supports, has a job, friends, and lives in her own home. We did our best to raise her to be self-determined, and now she is indeed! If you are interested in learning about the thoughts, steps, and strategies that helped us to work toward that goal, please contact us!
Our Story
It has certainly been a wild ride. Scroll down to see all of the life and family experiences, as well as professional roles, that have impacted our journey.
Cool Timeline
Graduated Kutztown University
Teaching
I spent the next three years in the classroom, teaching elementary school.
Daughter #1 born
Back to teaching
Received Masters Degree
in Elementary Education from Kutztown University in Pennsylvania.
Received Certification in Special Education
Daughter #2 born
Daughter #3
Our daughter, Alexa, was born 3 months premature. I had no idea at the time how much she would teach me and help me grow as a person!
Alexa Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy
Member and Chair, Statewide Early Intervention Conference Planning Committee
from 1993-1995
Early Intervention Consultant
From 1994-1995
PA Family Focused Early Intervention System
Director of Parent to Parent of PA
1995-2002
Alexa starts school
The School Bus Lift
There’s a story behind this photo. Stay tuned to learn more.
Alexa is statistician for traveling ice hockey team (2001-2005)
PA TASH Board, member and Chair
From 2002-2010
Executive Board, National Coalition on Self-Determination
From 2004-2010
The Beach Wheelchair
There’s a story behind this photo. Stay tuned to learn more.
Alexa goes to college
Member of NAB
Received Masters of Professional Studies
Political Management, concentration Grassroots Advocacy from George Washington University
Independent Research Title: “Outcomes of Transportation Funding Redistribution.” (solution for school bus bullying, segregation, budget)
Co-founder, Board Member, and First Executive Director of Parent to Parent USA
From 2012-2018
This role shaped much of my insight into the lives of parents of children with disabilities. I hope to share those insights with you here.
Helped coordinate first Philadelphia Disability Pride Parade
Planning member of annual Philadelphia Disability Pride Parade
From 2012-Present
Alexa graduates college
Alexa moves out and gets a job
2016 was a landmark year for us. That was the year we launched Alexa from the nest. Stay tuned to hear about how it felt and what it took to make it a success!
Board Member, Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health
From 2016-Present
Board Member, Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education
From 2019-Present
Launched Brill Consulting LLC
Drop me a line!
I’m accepting new clients through the rest of the year. Please drop me a line and we’ll get started with your next project!