FACES: Client Transitions from an Introvert to a Leader!

Diagnosed with mild mental retardation, depression, and schizoaffective disorder, 25-year-old Deborah came into LSG’s FACES program in 2009.  When Deborah first moved in to her new host home, as arranged by LSG, she had a difficult time adjusting to her new life, family, and environment.  Her support companion, Mary, had opened her homes to other FACES clients in the past and therefore had many years of experience in working with participants who have challenging behaviors. At the beginning, Deborah’s behavior was lethargic and she was uninterested in doing things around the home and in the community.  Mary and her family worked each day with Deborah to conquer the issues that prevented her from being happy.  Every time Deborah’s LSG case manager came to conduct a home visit, Deborah would make great strides on her goals.   Currently, Debora’s personality is very outgoing; she is very happy and enjoys shopping.

Deborah also attends a day center, where she learns daily living skills and has been introduced to sign language.  Deborah is capable of speaking but she had always had an interest in learning sign language because she wants to be able to communicate with people who are deaf.  Since she has taken the classes, Deborah has assisted others in teaching basic sign language to people at the day center and at home.

During her time in her host home, Deborah has blossomed to become a beautiful, mature, well-rounded woman with goals, dreams, and accomplishments.  We pray and hope that Deborah continues to grow for many years to come!