The road to recovery is filled with speed bumps and road blocks. For individuals like Dan, thanks to some incredible willpower and a strong support team, it is possible and it is lifechanging.
In 2011, Advocacy and Protective Services, Inc. (APSI) became Dan's guardian when police alerted the courts of their concern for his wellbeing. At the time, Dan had a fraught relationship with alcohol and received multiple public intoxication citations. From then until 2020 when his current APSI Representative Joe Lewis met him, Dan struggled on and off with legal issues and his relationship with alcohol. Dan had little time with staff and found ways to make money and buy more alcohol.
“Individuals with developmental disabilities also struggle with ‘typical’ setbacks such as addiction,” said Heather Burke, Dan’s SSA at the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities. “Not only was Dan battling addiction but he also had other obstacles in his way.”
In 2020, Dan's team was alerted by police that one more citation would lead to charges. Joe and the team at APSI, Lucas DD, and Thompson Total Home Care talked to Dan about the dire situation and its serious consequences.
Right then and there, Dan decided he wanted to work toward sobriety.
“After many years of unsuccessful attempts, he was finally ready to do it for himself,” Burke said. “The willpower he showed during this time was incredible.”
Dan's consistency with excellent psychological services and better medication helped him stick with the arduous process of getting sober. Last year, Dan's team was able to help him move into a safer apartment with a roommate. Today, Dan is two years sober and, seeing how much sobriety changed his life, he has decided to stop smoking for his health, too!
Anyone who has known Dan over the years has noted the difference in his health and demeanor. He has been able to self-regulate more effectively and has far fewer medical issues.
“It is just such a cool change to be able to witness and be a part of," Lewis, his APSI rep, said.
Dan and his team continue to find ways now to get him into the community by going on more outings. They are also exploring ways for him to spend time with dogs, such as taking a volunteer position at the local humane society. "He's a very funny guy... a very kind-hearted person," Joe says of Dan. In his free time, Dan loves watching horror movies, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and spending time with his family.
Today, Dan works at a church and has developed a trusting friendship with his new roommate. He has also been working toward reconnecting with his family. Dan has learned he can set boundaries related to alcohol with his friends and family. Joe says, "He's a great communicator. If something on his mind is bothering him, he'll talk to the provider or me." His self-determination and self-advocacy have only grown stronger in the past three years.
“We all knew he was capable but it is still shocking to see the progress he has made,” Burke said. “I couldn’t be prouder of Dan!”