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Bud’s story of Support, Strength, and Staying Active

At 78 years old, Alfred, who proudly goes by “Bud”, lives in the quiet countryside of rural Henry County. Bud faces multiple disabilities, yet he remains determined to stay active and independent in his community. Thanks to the support he receives through WILS and the Veteran Directed Care (VDC) Program, Bud continues to live at home and do what he enjoys, traveling to Sam’s Club and browsing flea markets.

“Yes, I think it [the VDC program] works good, and I can keep living at home. I like to be able to go out and shop at Sam’s Club and get out of the house.”

Bud

His son and caregiver, Alfred Jr., echoed the sentiment, saying, “I don’t know what we would do without a program like this. He would most likely have to go to a nursing home. Mom has a health aide coming into the home also, and I think that’s why Dad likes to get out more and travel, too, because it’s hard on him seeing her like that. She had a 12-hour heart surgery, a five-way bypass, and has been different ever since.”

Bud’s family is deeply grateful for the VDC Program, which enables them to care for him at home while supporting his desire to remain engaged in his community. Bud rated his overall satisfaction with the program as “Very Satisfied.”

Later in their meeting, Bud’s family mentioned their hope to go out to eat together—a rare opportunity due to Bud’s remote home location. Concerned about the logistics of getting Bud into and out of a restaurant, WILS offered to loan them the transport chair for a few months while they awaited a permanent wheelchair from the Veterans Administration (VA). Bud and his family were incredibly thankful for the assistance and agreed to share their story.

Recently, Bud’s son reached out to WILS with both bittersweet and hopeful news. Bud’s beloved wife had passed away, and the family was preparing to lay her to rest. At the same time, Bud had received his new wheelchair from the VA, and his son arranged to return the loaned transport chair to WILS.

Despite the challenges his family has faced, Bud continues to live at home, supported by his loved ones and the services he receives through WILS and the VDC Program. His story highlights the power of community resources in helping individuals with disabilities remain independent and connected to their communities.

At 67, Sherry faces daily struggles due to COPD and a lung infection that requires her to wear oxygen at all times. Shortness of breath and dizziness have led to falls, making everyday tasks even more difficult. Despite these challenges, Sherry was determined to remain independent in her home.

Sherry called her Independent Living Case Manager, Leslie, in a panic. Leslie reassured her and encouraged her to submit a letter explaining her continued health changes. Together, they completed an HCBS Pre-Assessment Tool, allowing WILS to advocate on her behalf and reapply for services.

The outcome was life-changing—Sherry was reassessed and approved for the CDS program once again! This time, when she called Leslie, it wasn’t out of fear but excitement. Knowing her personal care attendant could return to help her live safely at home was a tremendous relief. Her biggest fear—being forced into a nursing home—was no longer a concern.

“I feel I have accomplished what I wanted so I could receive services again.”

Sherry

Sherry’s story is a testament to the power of advocacy and the importance of having a support system like WILS. When challenges arise, WILS is there to empower individuals, ensuring they have the resources they need to remain independent in their own homes.

Life has a way of challenging even the strongest among us. For Gregory, a distinguished virologist with 23 publications, the fight became personal when he was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease—a condition that had also taken his mother. Despite this life-altering news, Gregory’s determination to maintain his independence remains unshaken.

Communication has been one of Gregory’s biggest hurdles. Now primarily non-verbal, he relies on email to express his thoughts, ensuring his needs are understood. Though his movements have become more limited, his mind remains sharp, and his willpower unwavering.

Gregory’s story is not just about battling a disease—it’s about redefining what it means to live fully. Through creativity, persistence, and an unbreakable spirit, he has demonstrated that independence is not defined by physical limitations, but by one’s ability to adapt and overcome. His journey is a testament to the strength of the human mind and the power of determination to triumph over adversity.

Betty, 62, has lived with COPD for two decades and diabetes for the last seven years. She has also battled skin cancer, which led to the removal of her nose. Although she initially had a prosthetic, an allergic reaction to the adhesive made it impossible to wear. Despite these challenges, Betty remains determined to live independently.

Using oxygen daily presents its own obstacles. The tubing creates a trip hazard in her home, making it difficult to move around safely. Simple tasks lower her oxygen levels, forcing her to balance rest with responsibilities.

“It helps me tremendously and I’d use it a long time ago had I known about it,” Betty shared. “I need checked on and need stuff from the store. With my oxygen on, it’s a pain to get around my house and breathing while trying to do things is hard.”

One of Betty’s biggest concerns was receiving help from someone she didn’t know. Instead, she was relieved to learn her daughter could be compensated for assisting her.

“Well, I feel better having my daughter help me and less guilty about her having to help me now,” Betty said. “I also have sons, but it’s different with them, and I’m more comfortable with my daughter since she is another woman. Now she can get some pay for helping me. She works another job too.”

With WILS Consumer Directed services program, Betty found a solution that allowed her to maintain her independence while ensuring she received the care she needed from someone she trusted. Her story is a reminder that the right support can make all the difference in continuing to live safely at home.