Wanda, a 64-year-old African American woman living in Baltimore City, is a woman of creativity, resilience, and hope. Once a teacher of creative arts and the proud owner of a small jewelry business, Wanda found joy in self-expression and entrepreneurship. Her love for the arts was a defining part of her life.
However, as time passed, Wanda faced challenges that she felt dimmed her spark. Depression and a decline in mobility made every day life difficult. “I was depressed,” Wanda shared. “Being in pain and trying to navigate my life was hard. Maintaining my home became difficult. I would start projects and never finish them because they no longer brought me joy.” Despite these struggles, Wanda remained determined. She had already been on a sobriety journey for several years before receiving services, a major personal achievement. Yet, her health needs continued to impact her quality of life—until she met Stacy, her SCI Supports Planner at Service Coordination, Inc.
“Wanda is so full of energy,” Stacy said. “I am so pleased to help her reach her goals and make new connections.” Through Stacy’s support, Wanda was recently enrolled in the Community First Choice program, where she began receiving Personal Care Assistance—a service that has made a significant difference in her life. “Having help at home has been one of the best things that’s happened to me,” Wanda said. “I can move around my home more easily, I’m not as exhausted from chores, and I can focus more on my health and regaining mobility.” Through this partnership with Wanda, Stacy discovered that weight loss was a crucial component in regaining her mobility, as well as a necessary prerequisite for her surgery. Stacy researched and found instructional YouTube videos that taught her how to perform exercises at home while sitting in her chair. Since working on this goal, Wanda has lost over 30 pounds and has exceeded the requirements needed for her surgery.
Stacy utilizes the Charting the LifeCourse framework when working with Wanda to help identify her goals and establish tangible steps to achieve them. When Wanda shared that returning to work was a major life goal, Stacy helped her pursue this dream by connecting her with opportunities such as the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), a federal program that provides job training and community service opportunities for older adults.
With continued support from Stacy, as well as her friends and family, Wanda is rediscovering her joy and purpose. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, meaningful support, and the belief that it’s never too late to reclaim your dreams.