I am an advocate for Vanguard and a Parent/Guardian/Primary Caregiver 33yrs. of a resident- that has currently had to move home because we all get a say in her life apparently, more then her parents even.

So, here we are....

As I read through a few of these comments, my immediate thought is "I wonder how many of these people have even been to Vanguard" or Are we all here just passing along second hand information. 

I'd like to shed some real light on a few comments that were made with the hopes of a different perspective that has gotten lost in all the noise. That this is actually about our adults choice. My Daughters choice. This is what they choose. Who are you guys to choose differently for her? for them?  And the fact that I am on here having to go up against other parents with disabled adults blows my mind! Its incredibly dis-hearting to my family and friends. We know what you are trying to rob them of by discouraging Medicaid waiver. Because it will directly affect my family. 

Its a reminder that all our disabled children/adults are uniquely different with there on "set of rules", ever changing. That acknowledging choices, preferences, and individual goals should be the norm. 

Allow me to be my 33 yr. old daughters voice and advocate here and leave with this. a snapshot of what just 2 months looked like for our daughter at Vanguard. She had many outings throughout, 3/ 4 times a week, consisting of Local Beaches, The Tides Game, throwing the ball with mascot, The City Park, Target for shopping trips ( her fav) Kroger for favorite snacks, Garden Center, Ice Crem shop. Medical Appts. etc....these are some of Integrated moments here, And these are her choices. My Daughter has meals at her kitchen table, around the center island standing, in the cafeteria, in her bed if she chose to and is safe, obviously. My daughter will be 33 Oct 2nd. Non Verbal, Autism Spectrum and I want a community just like this for her when I'm gone, Protected, safe, Open door policy, Great Staff, choice driven and Licensure compliance. Vanguard meets all of this and more for us.

My hope is that Medicaid Waiver be pushed through and that my daughters life doesn't have to continue to be impacted by this public opinion. Show some Grace here and recognize what's good for you may not be good for all.  We've worked towards this transition for 7 years now with her. It is a very big deal! Please don't forget the lives your words are impacting here. Be Responsible with MY Daughters future I beg you. This is what she chooses for her life.