Lainey's Story
Lainey's mother, Jeanine, wrote the following statement:
The Michelle P Waiver program initially, and more recently the SCL Waiver program, has been my daughter's salvation. Born with cerebral palsy, she has the physical abilities of a 3 month old baby. She has normal intelligence but requires total physical care. The caregivers and services provided by these waivers are exceptional such as bathing, incontinence care, feeding, correct seating in wheelchair and communicating. They keep her active and encourage her as she strives to learn more. She has developed a feeling of self worth and a reason to get up every day. Compassion is not taught but I hope this committee has the compassion not to cut the funds for the waiver programs. Reducing the funding will greatly diminish my daughters quality of life.
Lainey had her own statement about Waiver utilization:
My name is Alaine Marty. I am speaking on behalf of Impact Lex because when the aides (DSPs) there get new clients they see them as normal, they don't see the disabilities. Like, I am totally disabled and nonverbal but they see me first. They let me make my own choices by asking me. They are my friends and second my aides. Thank you for listening.