Well today is absolutely beautiful! 70 degrees and sunny! Finally! We've had such a long winter! Today is Pat's birthday, he's the man I take care of. He is 54 today~ It was an adjustment for my 12 year old when I decided to move him in. I had quit my job, and become certified as an Independent Care Provider, and moved him from a group home he was in, to a home that I found where we could all live together, that was going to be accessible for him and his wheelchair. It took some time, but found a home. I learned that there are so many different resources out there that help people with disabilities. We were able to find funding that paid for handicap modifications, which made it so much easier! We got several doorways widened, a roll in shower and a huge ramp out the back door. If you just have patience and look at everything, there is a lot that is available to you.
The process of becoming a provider was lengthy for me, because I kinda went the long way around, but after I got through it all, it was all worth it. Now there are a few classes that you must go through to become certified, have a clean criminal history, and of course not be on the abuser registry, and there you go! Another one of my friend's is currently becoming certified to be a provider too! There are many different types of providers. You could care for individuals who are declining in their health and need some extra care. You can care for children or adults with mental retardation or physical disabilities either part time or full time. You can do one on one services, where you go and pick up the individual from their home and take them into the community for different activities, or even just grocery shopping and other errands. You can also become a foster care provider, which is what I do, where the individual lives with you. There are so many different opportunities available, and so many different individuals who need care. For me, it was the best decision I ever made for me and my daughters. It has given me the opportunity to be home for my kids, a friend to hang out with all day, and the chance to finally give my daughters things that I could not afford before. If you have any questions about this opportunity, please let me know. I will be happy to share my experiences with you....Now, I need to get out and enjoy this beautiful day!
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