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Testimonials
My Story by Karen M. February 21, 2006
My name is Karen M. I have received much help from the Freedom Center for Independent Living in Middletown, Delaware (FCIL-DE). I even work here now, part time, so I can help others get the same benefits.
My problems started when I was about 12 years old, when I was diagnosed with ADHD in school. At that time, I was doing poorly in school, probably due to trouble in my personal life. I came from a home where my mother was an alcoholic. At the same time, we had a death in the family and, eventually, my parents got divorced. All this made me feel bad, so I developed a deep depression. No one ever talked to me about what was happening, so I felt very much alone.
Through the counselors in school, I learned how to handle the disorders in my life. However, I had trouble holding a job as a waitress in high school. I tried to stay busy by taking care of the neighbors who were elderly, and went to programs for health and medical care.
I got married at 18 years of age to my childhood sweetheart, but this also ended in divorce. I had three children, all of whom have a handicap, so the pressure was just too much. I left Michigan and came to Delaware where I hoped to start over.
I learned about the Centers for Independent Living when I was in Michigan. There was a Center, there, which helped my son. When I came to Delaware, I inquired and found the Freedom Center for Independent Living (FCIL-DE) in Middletown. I had no Insurance, to get the needed medication, but the Independent Living Specialist was able to help me obtain what I needed.
I didn’t think there was help for me. I had trouble with Social Security where I was told my disabilities were not severe enough for me to receive disability help. Because of the help I received through the Independent Living Specialist at the FCIL-De., I now have benefits.
The ILS assisted me by getting the necessary papers for Social Security Disability, encouraged me to read up on my disabilities, and to admit that I had them Better than denial. I accepted my problems, and went to counseling where I received medication from a psychiatrist.
The ILS helped me to realize that my condition was not my fault and that my disabilities were manageable with medication and therapy. I also discussed getting work, and that’s when the Center hired me to work here.
I now have several goals which I never would have thought of before I came to the Center. They are: meet new people; gain self-esteem; make more social contacts; get a job. I have achieved the last one and I’m working on the others. I’m certainly happier that I had been in the past, so I can thank the Center and the staff for all their help.
I would tell anyone who needs help to come to the Center. If the staff doesn't have what you need, they'll “put your feet in the right direction.” They helped me when I was homeless to find a place to live. I am going to move into a place of my own to rent instead of living in a room in someone else’s house.
I know what it's like to bang your head against the wall and get no results. The Center is a resource for you when no one else helps. The atmosphere is one of caring, kind, professional, confidential and is business-like at all times. With a “home-like” environment, you'll feel welcome and know that you'll get your problems discussed. You'll find alternatives and hope for the future to solve your needs.
At the Center, I learned to have hope and to gain self-esteem that will help me succeed. I learned not to give up and to know that I have help available if I need it.
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Freedom Center for Independent Living
400 North Broad Street, Middletown, DE 19709 (302) 376-4399 1-866-OUR-FCIL
TTY: (302) 376-4397 FAX: (302) 376-4395 E-MAIL: info@fcilde.org |
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