FARGO (KVRR/KFGO) – Air travel can be stressful for anyone, but especially for those who have a hidden disability. However, there is a new initiative being implemented at Hector International Airport called the Hidden Disability Sunflower program.
“We’re just pleased to be able to provide this program to the traveling public in our region,” executive director Shawn Dobberstein said.
This supports and raises awareness for those living with a hidden disability. Which ranges from autism to hearing loss.
“Hopefully it will grow across the country so all airports will have it and provide that ease of mind for the traveling public,” Dobberstein said.
Jennifer Steiner, who is an advocate for the program, has Crohn’s disease and said this will help with air travel. Because staff at the airport are trained to be able to help out with these hidden disabilities.
Dobbersten said “We’ve been busy here over the last couple of weeks training staff here at the airport. He said whether it’s car rental, airline, airport staff, security, restaurant, or gift shop staff can recognize the sunflower lanyards and items that a customer can recognize if there’s a need for additional assistance or tome.
It is signified with a lanyard, a button, or a wristband with sunflowers on it.
More information on the Sunflower program can be found at the information desk at the airport.
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