Impact Update: Christine
When she entered Bell’s Launch program last year, Christine admits that initially she was resistant to help. Eventually she learned to accept support when it was offered, and since then, her journey has opened up new possibilities.
With the guidance of staff in Bell’s Launch program and WellSpan’s ACT program, Christine hit milestone after milestone. She purchased her own car and moved from a maximum care group home to a minimum care apartment she shared with one other person.
One of Christine’s biggest dreams was to have her own space where her grandchildren could spend the night, and when she received the Personal Achievement award in October we announced that her dream was coming true as she was about to sign the paperwork to move into her own place.
Since then, Christine is thriving in her own apartment; independent living suits her well. During a recent visit, she proudly offered a tour of her space cheerfully decorated for the holidays.
“This is my own space,” she shared with a smile, adding, “I love it!”
She’s been busy settling in and continues to make meaningful strides toward greater independence.
While she is already managing many of her own expenses, one of Christine’s next goals is to take on even more responsibility. “I want to save money and more fully manage my own finances. I don’t want people to be helping me with it forever; I want to take care of my own responsibilities,” she said.
And that apartment?
Christine’s new home has become a place of connection and joy. Friends come over and encourage her with compliments on how well she’s doing.
She welcomed her grandchildren for a visit and they clearly feel at home. They tell her, “I’m coming back over, Nana; don’t you move!”
Christine continues to stay connected with Bell and her former program staff are thrilled to witness each independent step.