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Success Stories/Testimonials

Below is a testimonial from one of the thousands of individuals Community Living Toronto supports.

Person Centered Planning

We went through the Person Centered Planning process for my daughter, Heather, last week and found it a very fascinating venture.  I really didn't know quite what to expect but the Planners were very friendly, informative and accommodating.  Some members of Heather's support circle attended along with her dad & I and, of course, Heather was there as well.  One of the Planners had large pages and started with Heather's name and who was with her that evening.  She then moved onto a page 'What I'm bringing with me today' which was called a "Suitcase" and that was to hold all the descriptions of Heather.  When I saw the large page, I never dreamed we would fill it but I was pleasantly surprised when her suitcase turned out to be stuffed & overflowing.  Heather's friends in her circle supplied all sorts of descriptions along with her dad & I.  Once you start the process, it is surprising how quickly thoughts come out.

The next page is "What is in place for me now":
Once again, I was surprised at the support Heather has from family, friends, her Extend-A-Family family, her church, etc.  You don't always look at the big picture at one time so sometimes you don't realize exactly what you have.

The next page is "The Dream"
We could see Heather in supported living in a condo in Scarborough.  It would be a place where she doesn't have to walk upstairs to get in and out of her living area; where she could get on an elevator to go to the laundry room and/or convenience shop.  We could also see her in a day program that would challenge her capabilities and allow her to grow in independence. Then we listed all the things she likes to do like bowling, dancing, listening to music, going to Blue Jays games, playing bingo, etc.

The next page is "What Could Stand in My Way":
That section talked about her health issues such as no depth perception, heart condition, etc.

Then we made an "Action Plan" and made a list of "People Who Will Help Me On My Journey". Another very interesting exercise.

We concluded with the thoughts of those who were with Heather making her Plan. When that part of the process was finished, the Planners asked me to write an article introducing Heather and that was a pleasure to do as I enjoy talking about her and her life.  I also provided a picture of Heather for her Plan.

Judy Patterson,
Heather's Mom