"My most recent challenge began last year.  That's when I became involved with The Life Adjustment Team.  I had been extremely anxious being in my condo alone and was spending several nights per week with my parents.  I was emotionally dependent on them, particularly my mom, and I needed her by my side in order to do almost anything. My first case manager at the Team assigned companions to stay with me in the evenings, and ultimately I got over my anxieties and enjoyed being in my condo alone.  But I was still sleeping at my parents and had no social life, no active life of my own.

Jamie Kay (LAT's Director of Family Services) and my parents, in conjunction with my Case Manager, came up with a contract to which I would have to abide.  It required me to have productive time during the week in order to be able to spend more time with my parents.  At first I was very resentful of this, but I had to find it within myself to face the challenge.  My reward, which I only saw upon gaining complete independence, came within a couple of months.  I now see that something had to be designed in order to motivate me. 

I have evolved from a scared, dependent daughter into a fully blossomed woman who is still achieving much in my life.  I am empowered the way I was five years ago before my major surgeries and my dependency.  I am actively and assertively seeking employment.  I have become more active in my synagogue, and I am generally not so distrustful of people in general.  Working with the Life Adjustment Team has truly been a growth experience for me.

-Dana

"The people at LAT helped me out and made the picture more clear, and for that I am grateful. Thankfully there are others who will do their best to comfort you in your journey."

  

- Andy

"I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate everything that you have done for me. I am currently holding down several jobs and have a 3.9 grade point average in school. I'm living independently outside of institutions and things are going great. There's no way that I would be where I am today had it not been for your care and compassion and the Life Adjustment Team's help and guidance.

I really can't put into words what you all have meant to me, but just know that I am forever grateful.

I'll be in touch and let you know what happens with this job. I hope to be to these kids what you and LAT were to me, a positive and caring figure in their inner lives."

  

- Stacy