What if he can't work and neither can I?
June 19, 2017
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| Patrick |
My son Patrick is 19. Patrick enjoys being around people, sports, and getting a paycheck. He also requires regular neurological testing and monitoring by physicians. Next year will be Patrick's last year enrolled in school. We've worked REALLY hard to get him lined up for jobs and services he will need. The future is very scary but it MUCH scarier if the work we have done thus far is all for nothing.
I am worried about my son's services being reduced below their already minimal levels. We barely make ends meet, but get by for now. I am worried about services beyond medical services like disability supports! Community based services are less expensive and preferable to all. I am worried about my son's future and his ability to work and pay taxes if there are no supports available for him. I am worried about my own ability to work if he is compromised. Somebody has to be with him. What if he can't work and neither can I?
Though we don't have much, we have what we need and I am pleased to be able to support myself and my son. We are ready and willing to do our part, but we can't do it all. Let us be active contributors to society by maintaining the current minimal supports in Medicaid for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Community based support is the right choice for us all.
Lisa Maynes is a single parent working full time while also managing services for her 19-year-old son Patrick who has a rare genetic condition. She is also a cancer survivor.
