by Nicole Bolinger | Jan 14, 2026 | Book Review, Community, Special Health Care Needs
An audiobook review by Elena Francisco Every person who works with people who have disabilities should read this book. The book is just as billed, an unrepentant memoir. Judith Heumann had polio as a toddler, living her life as a quadriplegic. A few years older than...
by Nicole Bolinger | Dec 16, 2025 | Community, General wellbeing
The holiday season is often described as joyful and magical, but for many individuals and families in the special needs community, it can also feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. Between busy schedules, sensory overload, financial stress, and the pressure to...
by Nicole Bolinger | Sep 30, 2025 | Community, Oral Health, Oral Systemic Link, Special Health Care Needs
Registered Dental Hygienists in Alternative Practice (RDHAPs) are uniquely positioned to make a lasting impact on oral health access, especially for patients with disabilities and those living in underserved communities. Their specialized training extends beyond...
by Nicole Bolinger | Aug 25, 2025 | Children, Community, Direct Access Dental Hygienist, General wellbeing, Member Spotlight, Older Persons, Schools
One of the perks of being a member of RDHAP Connect is being featured in a member spotlight on our website and social media pages. Today we’re spotlighting Lori Faulconer, M.Ed., BSDH, RDHAP. Read below for Elly’s interview with Lori! Elly: Of the many joys...
by Nicole Bolinger | Apr 9, 2025 | Community, Direct Access Dental Hygienist
The California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA) convened its annual conference in Folsom, California on Thursday, March 27, 2025. It proved to be an enrichening experience for many there, including me. I won’t spend a lot of time reviewing the presenters as I...
by Nicole Bolinger | Mar 10, 2025 | Community, Oral Health, Oral Systemic Link, Special Health Care Needs
I have been involved with two different advocacy organizations lobbying for bills and advocating for the populations the RDHAP serves. I remember my first Legislative Day as a member of the California Dental Hygienist’s Association. It began with a meeting in a...
