Traffic Alert: Southbound traffic at 6410 Fannin will be detoured overnight, from 1-3 a.m., July 18 due to a CenterPoint Energy vault repair. The UPB Garage will only be accessible from Main Street, and the UPB valet drive will be closed. 

Empowering families through emergency readiness

LoneStar LEND participants and local first responders pose together in front of a fire truck during the Disaster Readiness EXPO focused on inclusive emergency preparedness.

Working with patients and families who live with autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities, Pauline Filipek, MD, recognized that disaster readiness looks different for everyone.

After witnessing the challenges many families faced following Hurricane Harvey, Filipek and the LoneStar LEND team researched ways to make emergency preparedness accessible and hands-on.

That vision became reality with the Disaster Readiness EXPO. Families practiced rescue boat procedures, learned about emergency supplies, tried floating devices, and used noise-canceling headphones during emergency simulations, all in a supportive environment. Families also became comfortable with emergency vehicles and first responders—many for the first time.

The EXPO built confidence, reduced fear, and helped families feel safer and more empowered during emergencies.