Stories

Home Again: Mr. Edwards’ Journey Back to Family and Healing

A Loving Family, A Life Disrupted

For Mr. Devon Edwards, family has always been the center of his world.

Described by those closest to him as kindhearted, hardworking, and devoted, he built a life rooted in faith, love, and togetherness in Prince George’s County, Maryland. But after suffering a stroke, everything changed. He was admitted to Larkin Chase Nursing & Restorative Care Center, where he began the long process of recovery—far from home and the people he loved most.

The separation took its toll. Once outgoing and upbeat, Mr. Edwards began to experience depression. It wasn’t just the stroke—it was the silence, the waiting, and the ache of being away from his wife and daughter.

He made his wish clear from the start:
“I just want to go home.”

A Family Ready to Help, and a Planner Ready to Guide

In December 2019, Mr. Edwards was assigned to Service Coordination, Inc. That’s when he met his SCI Supports Planner, who joined him and his daughter for their first conversation at the nursing facility.

His family—especially his wife and daughter—were committed to bringing him home. They believed he would heal best surrounded by love and familiar comforts. With the help of SCI, they hoped to make that happen through enrollment in the Community Options (CO) Waiver program.

Navigating a Pandemic, Together

As the waiver enrollment process got underway, the world suddenly changed. COVID-19 hit, and nursing homes across the state went into lockdown. Family visits stopped. Access was restricted.

But Mr. Edwards’ team didn’t stop moving forward.

His Supports Planner stayed focused—using phone calls, digital tools, and close coordination with the facility’s social worker and Mr. Edwards’ family to ensure everything stayed on track. Despite the hurdles, every form was submitted, every document filed, every step taken.

And then, in March 2020, his goal became reality.

Coming Home to Heal

Mr. Edwards returned to his family home—reunited with his wife, embraced by his daughter, and uplifted by the comfort of familiar surroundings.

Through the CO Waiver, he now receives 40 hours of personal assistance each week, plus nurse monitoring through the Local Health Department and ongoing Supports Planning from SCI. His wife proudly serves as his caregiver, and the two are cherishing their time together again.

His daughter says it best:
“He’s back to himself.”

A New Chapter of Hope and Recovery

Though recovery is ongoing, Mr. Edwards already feels lighter. The depression that weighed on him in the nursing facility has begun to lift. Being home has given him energy, purpose, and hope. His health is improving, and his family remains confident in his continued healing.

“It’s a blessing to have my parents back together under the same roof,” his daughter shares.

“We’re so thankful to SCI for making this possible.”

The Heart of What SCI Does

Mr. Edwards’ story is a testament to the healing power of home—and the importance of community support when it matters most. At SCI, we help individuals and families across Maryland navigate complex systems, access Medicaid Waiver programs, and coordinate long-term care with compassion and efficiency.

We believe no one should face these challenges alone. With personalized support, thoughtful planning, and trusted relationships, we help bring people back to the lives they love.

Explore our full range of services.

Because going home is more than just a discharge—it’s the first step toward healing.