A Journey Toward Independence in Fort Wayne
Over the course of decades, Tom has worked his way into more independence. Throughout his progress from a group home to maintaining his own apartment in northeast Fort Wayne, Easterseals Northeast Indiana has been a steady partner for him.
Now, at 68, Tom is active and decorates his apartment with souvenirs of his memorable events and travels, from a recent trip to Nashville to an autograph from John Denver, still one of his favorite musicians.
A Life Filled with Music, Memories, and Meaning
A Love for Music and Creative Expression
“His nature stuff was great. His music was great. He’s not hard rock. He’s easy rock. … I got to see him – twice! At the Embassy and the Coliseum,” Tom said. “I made a scrapbook on John Denver. No one else made a scrapbook on him.”
There are other favorites, too: The Doo Wops, Celtic Women, Spike and the Bulldogs.
Daily Life with the Right Support
Managing Finances and Home Life
Two days a week, staff member Beverly Rencher spends time with Tom, taking him on errands or helping him keep his apartment in order. He manages his finances with the help of Easterseals, and he takes great pride in watching what he spends and knowing when bills are due. Other staff members take him on special outings, from concerts to hockey games.
Special Outings and Changing Interests
His tastes can change over time. He no longer does Polar Bear plunges, for example. He’s built a life of simple pleasures.
Simple Pleasures and Personal Passions
Sports, Hobbies, and Relaxation
At home, he follows the Denver Broncos and enjoys watching sports talk shows during the day. He spends many hours doing word searches and coloring intricate designs in coloring books designed as soothing pastimes for adults.
“When I saw them coloring books, I just loved doing them,” he said.
He said he’s always enjoyed art, beginning when he was a child. He recalls doing art for a barbershop where he worked as a youngster, before later jobs at Meijer and then at Dairy Queen.
Adventures Near and Far
Tom has great memories from some of the trips he’s taken with groups that were organized by Easterseals and accompanied by staff members. Disney World and Nashville are among his favorite places he’s visited.
“I find time to do things on my own,” he says.
Personal Style and Everyday Independence
He enjoys walking at Shoaff Park and visiting garage sales and thrift stores. Those bargain outlets are where he’s built a collection of Hawaiian shirts that are almost a fashion signature for him now.
“I love wearing Hawaiian shirts. The bright colors got my attention. I don’t like the dull colors,” he said.
Supported Independence That Lasts
Tom’s many adventures and pastimes add up to an enjoyable life, one that he’s not inclined to change. With Easterseals here to support him, he can continue to live his best life.
“I’ve been in Fort Wayne all my life, and I don’t think I’m moving away,” he said.