Editor’s Note: LIFTT’s overall success is measured in large part by the success of consumers and peers in achieving their individual goals. When a consumer or one of our peers successfully completes a goal, their IL specialist, PCA facilitator, or Peer Program Coordinator writes up a “success story.” It is our privilege and pleasure to share some of them with you from time to time
At LIFTT, we believe that disabilities can be transformed into unique abilities, depending on how we respond to them. Every challenge can become an opportunity, every obstacle a chance for innovation. We aim to support individuals in discovering their strengths, embracing their uniqueness, and finding ways to live independently, enjoy life, and succeed. Here, we share the inspiring stories of our eight peers, whose journeys remind us that true strength lies in how we view and use our abilities.
Sue W.
Sue W., a 77-year-old woman with bipolar disorder and a back injury, faces unique challenges. Bipolar disorder affects her mood, energy, and ability to function, leading to periods of extreme highs and lows. Her back injury limits her mobility, making it difficult to perform tasks that require physical exertion. Sue may experience anxiety when learning new tasks, but with detailed guidance, she excels. Her mobility is limited, necessitating that she use a walker, take breaks, and perform seated tasks.
Initially a consumer, Sue successfully obtained adaptive equipment for her home and recently mastered using public transportation. As a peer mentor, Sue has been instrumental in preparing COVID tests for distribution, organizing brochures for outreach events, and assisting her supervisor with peer data. She also excelled at making callbacks to consumers offering COVID-19 tests. Sue has been a peer for two years and is a great asset, always eager to help where needed. The LIFTT staff greatly appreciates her people skills and willingness to assist. Sue’s journey is a testament to others with similar disabilities who believe they can achieve independence and contribute significantly to their communities with perseverance and the right support. Sue is an inspiration and a great example for us to follow. We hope to be 77 years old and live as independently as she does.
Jocelyn V.
Jocelyn V., a 20-year-old woman with ADHD and anxiety/bipolar disorder, faces difficulties staying on task and focusing. ADHD affects her attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, while anxiety and bipolar disorder can lead to overwhelming emotions and mood swings. Living with her family and helping maintain their ranch, Jocelyn’s love for arts and crafts shines through her participation in social groups. Her eagerness to serve positively is evident in many ways.
As a personal care assistant to a family member, Jocelyn’s help is invaluable. At LIFTT, she is always excited to assist, whether preparing outreach materials, helping with payroll tasks, or cooking food for the team and consumers. Her positive and engaging personality makes her a joy to work with. Jocelyn has also expressed interest in facilitating classes and workshops, showing great potential as a future art teacher. Jocelyn’s story inspires others with similar disabilities, demonstrating they can overcome challenges and lead meaningful, independent lives. Jocelyn brought so much joy to LIFTT. She “lifted” LIFTT as an organization and added music to it because she sings about everything. We need to learn to dance to the sound of her voice.
Vern A.
Vern A., a 56-year-old man with cerebral palsy and a learning disability, faces daily challenges as a wheelchair user with limited mobility. Cerebral palsy affects his motor skills, balance, and coordination, making physical activities challenging. His learning disability adds to his struggles with reading, writing, and memory retention. Despite these challenges, Vern writes his name with focused effort and sometimes needs reminders due to memory issues.
As LIFTT’s first established consumer of the Self Direct Personal Assistance Services program, Vern chooses and employs his personal care assistants, allowing him to live independently in his apartment. He also has access to a vehicle and public transportation. Vern’s desire to participate is his greatest asset. He enjoys talking to people and volunteers for task forces and outreach events. Vern has appeared in several LIFTT video productions, sharing his life experience to benefit consumers, peers, and community members. Vern is a valuable asset to the LIFTT team, embodying what it means to share his experience for the greater good. His example is crucial for others with similar disabilities, showing that independence and meaningful community involvement are possible. Vern is LIFTT’s movie star, and we will not let him go to Hollywood. We acknowledge that he deserves many Oscar nominations for his roles in LIFTT’s video clips.
Rebecca A.
Rebecca” A., a 49-year-old woman with a developmental disability and cerebral palsy, faces challenges with decision-making, impulse control, and memory retention. Her developmental disability affects her cognitive functions, and cerebral palsy impacts her motor skills, although she is ambulatory with good mobility. Living with family, she strongly desires to move to a supported living setting and is exploring the Bridges of Montana Program for more independence.
Initially seeking advocacy assistance for her Medicaid benefits, Rebecca was referred to the Peer Program after achieving her goal. Rebecca participates in a day program to stay socially connected and active. Although recent medical issues and a busy schedule have limited her time at LIFTT, Rebecca’s qualities are highly valued. Her strong desire to help, active lifestyle, and persistent good attitude make her a wonderful addition to the LIFTT team. Rebecca’s determination and positivity inspire others with similar disabilities, proving they can achieve their goals and live independently. Rebecca is an inspiration. Her positive attitude encourages us to move forward and overcome whatever attempts to limit us.
Michelle Jones
Michelle Jones, a 55-year-old woman with cerebral palsy and numerous additional disabilities, faces daily challenges. Cerebral palsy affects her muscle coordination and movement, while her neurological and learning disabilities, speech impairment, and developmental disabilities further complicate her ability to perform daily tasks. Michelle also deals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and various physical health issues, making her day-to-day life complex.
Initially seeking housing, Michelle was recognized as a good candidate for the Peer Program. Currently living with her family, she is eager for more independence. Despite memory problems and difficulties following instructions, Michelle is enthusiastic and diligent. She has helped prepare outreach materials and paperwork inserts for CSR folders. Michelle aims to attend Living Well in the Community and Community Living Skills workshops. Her willingness to help and be utilized despite her disabilities is greatly appreciated. Michelle’s perseverance and dedication serve as a powerful example for others with similar disabilities, showing that they, too, can strive for and achieve independence.
Austin Davidson
Austin Davidson, a 28-year-old man with multiple disabilities, including orthopedic issues, obesity, depression, autism, and ADHD, faces significant challenges. Autism affects his social interactions and communication, while his orthopedic issues and obesity limit his physical mobility. Depression and anxiety add to his emotional struggles, making everyday tasks difficult.
Initially applying for housing, Austin was referred to the Peer Program. He assisted with outreach materials and other small tasks but has become busy with parenting and job coaching. Although he has stepped away from the Peer Program, Austin has expressed interest in participating in workshops such as “Living Well in Community” and “Community Life Skills.” His vibrant personality and focus, when given direct instructions, make him a great addition to the team if he chooses to return. Austin’s story shows others with similar disabilities that it is possible to manage their challenges, find support, and live a fulfilling life.
Peggy Royer
Peggy Royer, a 68-year-old woman with mental and emotional illnesses, faces the daily challenge of managing her depression. Her mental health condition affects her mood, energy levels, and ability to function, often leading to isolation and difficulty performing daily tasks.
Referred to the Peer Program by her family, Peggy’s clerical experience allowed her to assist LIFTT’s Finance Department and reception desk. The LIFTT staff greatly appreciated her ability to work with minimal instruction and her eagerness to help. Although Peggy has left the Peer Program due to life changes, she is always welcome back. Her quiet but likable nature made her a valuable asset during her time with LIFTT. Peggy’s journey is a testament to others with similar disabilities, showing that they can find purpose and contribute meaningfully to their community despite their challenges.
Adrienne Thurman
Adrienne Thurman, a 20-year-old woman with low vision/blindness, faces significant daily challenges. Her visual impairment limits her ability to perform tasks that require sight, and she relies on assistive technology and adaptive equipment like CCTV and magnification software to function. Adrienne cannot drive and depends on pre-arranged transportation for her mobility.
Initially seeking assistance with registration for the Montana Association for the Blind’s Summer Orientation Program and acquiring basic independent living skills, Adrienne was referred to the Peer Program by her IL Specialist. Adrienne loves horses and dreams of owning and operating stables. At LIFTT, Adrienne completed the Living Well in the Community Workshop and assisted with preparing outreach materials and ILS clerical tasks. Her good attitude, youthful enthusiasm, and willingness to learn new skills make her a wonderful asset to the LIFTT team.
Our next peer could be you!
A peer mentor is more than just a guide; they are a beacon of hope, a living testament to the power of perseverance and the strength of community. Peers at LIFTT are individuals who, despite their disabilities, have embraced their unique abilities and are committed to helping others do the same. By sharing their experiences and offering support, they help others navigate their challenges and achieve greater independence.
If you have a disability and want to transform it into an ability, consider joining LIFTT’s Peer Mentor Program. We serve the following counties: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. We are waiting for you to become our peer. Like those shared here, your journey can inspire others and help create a more inclusive and supportive community. Join us at LIFTT and discover the power within you to live independently, enjoy life, and succeed. For more information about joining the LIFTT peer program or any of our programs and services, contact your nearest LIFTT office at (406) 259-5181 (Billings), (406) 948-8500 (Glendive), or send us a note on the web at liftt.org/contact.
About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides people with disabilities with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.
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