ETB 40 - In this episode I talk with Gerrie Bourque, mother of 3 whose 26 year old son Tyler has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism, is medically complex and has rare disorders. Gerrie shares the various caregiving options they have explored over the years.
Tyler has a Texas Medicaid Waiver which provides services for him including a support staff to care for him as needed. Initially, Gerrie's husband/Tyler's dad was the first paid caregiver. They have also hired staff from Care.com, enrolled Tyler in Day hab a couple days a week and had a family member as his primary caregiver.
Each waiver offers varied options for care with the ability to try different ones to find which works best for each individual. Families are able to alter the caregiving situation as circumstances and support needs change. Currently, Tyler is attending Day hab 5 days a week and thriving!
No matter which avenue you take to find support for your child, remember often times your child is the best barometer for who is a good fit.
Tyler's story: Recovering from intestinal malrotation:
https://www.texaschildrens.org/blog/tylers-story-recovering-intestinal-malrotation
Verne Cox Adaptive Recreation Center
https://www.pasadenatx.gov/189/Adaptive-Recreation
Next Step Transition Center
https://www.nextsteptransitioncenter.org/
Care.com
https://www.care.com/
Connect with Gerrie
gerriebeauticontrol@yahoo.com
Connect with Sandy
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sandydeppisch
Embrace the Blessing Facebook Group: http://bit.ly/ETB4ME
Website: http://www.embracetheblessing.com/