Mike's Story
Mike is 41 years old and has Down Syndrome. If you know Mike, you know his smile is contagious. He greets each day with joy, laughter, and genuine excitement for life. He loves holidays, birthdays, decorations, and any reason to celebrate. His enthusiasm has a way of bringing people together, and he reminds all of us to appreciate life's simple moments.
My husband and I have been part of Mike's life for more than 15 years. Over that time, he has become much more than someone we support—he has become family. After the passing of both of his parents, Mike was left without any natural supports. We were honored to become his guardians and continue providing him with the love, stability, and advocacy every person deserves.
Although Mike is incredibly social and joyful, he also has significant support needs. He requires assistance with personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, daily routines, and making safe decisions both inside and outside the home. Because he is trusting by nature, he is also at a high risk for exploitation and depends on those around him to help protect his health, safety, and well-being.
The Supports for Community Living (SCL) Waiver has made it possible for Mike to continue living in a loving family home instead of facing placement with unfamiliar caregivers or in an institutional setting. That difference cannot be overstated. Home is where Mike feels secure, where he is surrounded by people who know him, understand his routines, celebrate his successes, and love him unconditionally.
The waiver also allows Mike to remain an active member of his community. He participates in activities he enjoys, builds meaningful relationships, and continues to experience the sense of belonging that every person deserves. His life is not defined by his disability—it is enriched by the opportunities he has because of the supports made available through the SCL Waiver.
Without these services, Mike's future would look dramatically different. Families like ours cannot replace the trained, reliable support professionals who make community living possible. Reductions to waiver funding would not simply reduce services—they would threaten Mike's ability to remain in the home and community he loves.
For us, the SCL Waiver is about far more than funding. It is about preserving Mike's dignity, protecting his safety, honoring his independence, and ensuring he continues to live a life filled with love, purpose, and belonging. Every person deserves the opportunity to live in a home where they are known, valued, and loved. The SCL Waiver has made that possible for Mike, and we hope it continues to do so for many years to come.