Volume 3 - Number 11

November 1999

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Exemplary Practice—Circle of Support

For many years Delich Waldrop’s Vision was to move across the State to live near her sister Kay and brother-in-law Ron. Delich lived in an Intermediate Care Facility across the state from her sister. She would occasionally vacation at Kay and Ron’s home or they would come to West Tennessee to visit. These occasions were never enough and she yearned to be closer to Kay and Ron. Beginning in March, 1999, Delich and her Circle of Support worked diligently to develop a transition plan that would include everything needed for a safe and comfortable move. The Circle of Support consisted of her sister, brother-in-law, Independent Support Coordinator for West TN, Independent Support Coordinator for East TN, Advocate, Occupational Therapist, Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant and Speech Language Pathologist. It also included the Regional Monitor for West and Regional Monitor for East, Intermediate Care Facility Nurse, Intermediate Care Facility Behavioral Support staff, Intermediate Care Facility Social Worker, and the Provider Director. The Circle of Support had one goal that kept everyone focused-to support Delich in her pursuit of happiness. Many people worked very hard and carefully on helping Delich reach her Vision. Delich moved July 31, 1999. She was ecstatic! Submitted by Karen Woulfe

Delich (left) with a staff person in her new East Tennessee home. Her beautiful smile tells us we were able to make a difference in one life.

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East Tennessee Roundtable Begins East Tennessee had its first Roundtable involving individuals with disabilities, providers, Independent Support Coordinators, parents, advocates, regional office personnel and central office personnel on the topic of “Meaningful Life.” All involved felt it was very positive and are looking forward to additional roundtables where we can continue to sit down together to keep the person the focus of the services and supports we provide. For a copy of the discussion and recommendations from the roundtable, contact Janet Kinley at 423-434-6530.

Guardianship Training Scheduled WHEN: November 16, 1999 - WHERE: Knoxville - Maple Cottage 5908 Lyons View Drive TRAINERS: Nora Cannon and Edward Maurer TIME: 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. PARTICIPANTS: Families, Conservators/Guardians, Advocates, Providers, ISCs, Regional Office Staff and Interested Community COURSE CONTENT: Law and process for conservatorship in Tennessee Overview of the following: Steps for deciding if conservatorship should be sought Deciding what rights should be given to a conservator Identifying possible conservators Working through the court process. There will be an emphasis on medical decision making and alternatives to conservatorship.