LIFE Programs Making a Difference Continued from page 3
This past month, Diane moved into one of LIFE’s “small homes,” where she has found comfort and stability. A particular staff member has become an anchor for Diane, offering calm and encouragement. “I feel safe,” she shared, reflecting on the emotional and mental support she’s received. While challenges remain, Diane is grateful for the ongoing support and even enjoyed a recent boat outing with her best friend. “I am thankful for what LIFE has done and will keep doing for me,” said Diane.
I appreciate the bus assistants coming to my apartment to pick me up and take me home.”
DAVID McKAIN Regaining Mobility and Purpose David McKain worked as a Certified Nurse Aid at the Kittanning Health Center for 25 years. Before joining LIFE Armstrong County program 2½ years ago, he struggled with limited
CAROL K.’S JOURNEY From Isolation to Community
NANCY WILLS Overcoming Hardships and Embracing Life Nancy Wills’ life took a positive turn when she joined LIFE Beaver County in 2016. Before enrolling, she lived in a cluttered home with no support and a revolving door of unreliable “friends.” The staff at LIFE Beaver County cleaned Nancy’s home, addressed the pest issues, and cared for her medical needs. When faced with eviction, LIFE stepped in to help, contracting a deep cleaning service for her home that included biohazard cleanup, trash removal, painting, and more. However, her “friends” quickly filled the newly cleaned space with their belongings, more cats, and trash, leaving the home in the same poor condition. She was eventually evicted and became homeless. This was a turning point, and she began recognizing that her “friends” were not truly supportive. She leaned on the LIFE team for emotional support and assistance with her basic needs. LIFE helped her find transitional and eventually permanent housing. A LIFE staff member even attended her appeal hearing with the Housing Authority when she was initially denied HUD housing due to her eviction history. The staff member advocated for her, explaining that once she removed herself from her toxic environment, she lived in a hotel without issue, paid her bills, and saw improvements in both her physical and mental health. In January 2022, she was approved for housing and moved into a building with LIFE supportive services available around the clock. Since her move, this participant has been living life on her own terms. She’s become more social, attending meals, and card games in her building. She has strong relationships with the LIFE staff and attends the LIFE
center twice a week, where she participates in programs and makes it her goal to bring laughter to others. Today, she lives in a clean apartment and actively participates in social events at the LIFE center. “My life has never been better,” Nancy reflects, shining with vibrant positivity and newfound independence. MS. REBECCA Walking Again with Faith and Determination Ms. Rebecca’s story is one of determination and faith. When she joined LIFE Beaver County in 2021, she used a wheelchair but was determined to walk again. With the help of the LIFE physical therapy team, she worked diligently, and after a year and a half, she achieved her goal of walking independently with a cane. Ms. Rebecca attends the LIFE center weekly, staying busy with church and social activities and supporting others through prayer groups. Her hopeful message to fellow participants is: “What God has done for me, He can do for you too.” These five individuals—Diane, Carol, David, Nancy, and Ms. Rebecca—have each experienced life-changing transformations through the support and care of the LIFE Program. Whether regaining mobility, overcoming isolation, or rediscovering purpose, their journeys illustrate the program’s profound impact in fostering resilience and hope. The LIFE Program is a perfect match to accomplish the goals of each participant to reclaim their independence and live more fulfilling lives at home through personalized care, transportation, and a sense of community. v
When Carol first joined LIFE Lawrence County , she was living at home, isolated and bedridden due to post-cancer complications. Her situation was bleak, with no running water, a broken car, and a deteriorating house. After multiple falls that resulted in hospitalizations, Carol finally gave LIFE a chance. It was a decision that transformed her life. “LIFE Lawrence County has provided me with medical help that doesn’t cost me anything,” Carol explained. “I don’t have to make my own appointments as they do that for me.” Carol enjoys going to the center for the entertainment and to socialize. She also loves being around people and helping them. “This makes me feel good about myself,” said Carol. “It is enjoyable to eat meals with friends at LIFE and not alone like I do at home. I have made several good friends at my new apartment, in the housing building where LIFE helped me move.” She now attends the center twice weekly, enjoying a nutritious meal, socializing with friends, and helping others. LIFE even helped her move into an apartment where she feels safe and supported. Carol shares, “I feel like LIFE staff and participants are my family.” The program’s transportation, social activities, and supportive staff have allowed her to regain independence, well-being, and community. “LIFE transportation provides all of my transportation needs for my appointments,” said Carol. They also take me to and from the center, where I attend twice weekly.
mobility. David’s condition has dramatically improved through consistent exercise, medical assistance, and in- home support. He now rides an exercise bike and has even begun visiting the YMCA. “When I first enrolled, I could hardly walk, and I couldn’t put my shoes or socks on,” David recalls. David enjoys coming to the center, “I get to meet new people. I like to make people laugh and feel welcomed and encouraged. I even belong to the Participant Council Committee. Attending the center gives me a sense of purpose. When enrollment originally came to my apartment, I thought it was a lie,” stated David. “Other healthcare companies said they would do this or that and didn’t come through. LIFE Armstrong County has done everything they said and more.”
4 • ABUNDANT LIFE MAGAZINE: FALL/WINTER 2024
www.LutheranSeniorLife.org • 5
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