The WILS Way Blog: Celebrating Choice, One Story at a Time
Serving Benton, Henry, Johnson, Lafayette, Pettis and Saline County, Missouri.
Welcome to The WILS Way Blog, where we share inspiring stories and valuable insights from the people who make WILS so impactful—our consumers. At WILS, we believe that independent living is a choice, and we are dedicated to offering the support, resources, and guidance necessary for you to take control of your life. Whether it’s through assistive technology, community outreach, or advocacy, our blog highlights the journey of those who have embraced their independence and are thriving on their own terms.
Through The WILS Way Blog, you will find firsthand accounts of how people with disabilities are overcoming challenges and achieving their goals, with a focus on empowerment, accessibility, and inclusion. We believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to shape their own future, and we’re proud to be a part of that transformation.
Our stories cover a wide range of topics, from personal triumphs to the latest community initiatives. For more information about the work we do to support independent living, visit our partner organization, MOCIL, to learn about independent living efforts across Missouri.
If you’d like to stay updated on the latest blog posts and news from WILS, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter, where you’ll get firsthand access to updates, events, and more inspiring stories.
Explore The WILS Way Blog today, and discover how independence is not just a goal, but a way of life. Let’s build a future where every person, regardless of ability, has the power to thrive in their community and beyond.
Kendis, a 67-year-old man from Sedalia, lives with COPD and depends on oxygen 24 hours a day. The summer heat and humidity make it hard for him to breathe, and managing daily comfort can be a real challenge. On top of his health struggles, Kendis didn’t have access to a traditional mattress. He had been …
Katheryn, 74, from Sedalia, has always valued her independence. Living with Stage 4 COPD and relying on oxygen, she knew she needed reliable help to stay safe and comfortable in her home. That’s why she chose the Consumer-Directed Services (CDS) care at home program through WILS. With CDS, Katheryn has the freedom to hire her …
Anita, 62, from Sedalia, faces daily challenges living with spinal degeneration. The pain she experiences makes it difficult to cook, clean, or even move around her home most days. Without other sources of assistance, Anita relies entirely on the Consumer-Directed Services (CDS) care at home program through WILS to help her manage daily living and …
After months of hard work and determination, Ed is celebrating a milestone that once felt out of reach—taking steps on his own and transferring without assistive equipment. Since April, Ed has been attending physical therapy three times a week. In the beginning, he was almost entirely dependent on his family. He was confined to his …
West-Central Independent Living Solutions (WILS) is proud to announce that Teri joins the WILS Board of Directors, bringing with her a wealth of experience, deep community roots, and a lifelong commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Teri’s unique blend of professional expertise and personal passion makes her a perfect fit for WILS’ mission and vision.
Malena will attend State Fair Community College to study International Business. She is diagnosed with dyslexia and dysgraphia, which has added unique challenges to her education journey.
At 57, Anne has faced numerous challenges living with a degenerative disease and arthritis, but her spirit of independence has always been unwavering. Over the years, she has relied on the Consumer Directed Services (CDS) Program to assist with personal attendants, allowing her to live comfortably in her own home. But when her apartment complex …
At WILS, we believe that independence is the key to living life on your own terms. That’s why we work tirelessly to provide the tools and support that help people with disabilities lead fuller, more empowered lives. When Liz, an Independent Living Case Manager at WILS, visited Jamie to check in on her experience with …
At WILS, we believe that independent living is a fundamental right, and that everyone deserves the opportunity to live life on their own terms. Edward’s story is a powerful example of how advocacy, support, and determination can help someone achieve the independence they deserve. Edward, who has been a participant with WILS since 2021, faced …
