Leonard Phillips
This is a success story and a half! This young man became involved with CMRC 10 years ago with a history of running away from his home, being verbally and physically aggressive and could be very assaultive. He was receiving homebound education for 1-2 hours 3 days per week, if that. He went into placement at a new experimental home for children with severe behaviors.
After a rough start, this individual began to slowly flourish and grow. Those who worked with him had to develop trust with him, improve his communication abilities and help him develop new social skills. He began to attend school for 2 hours a day and before the first semester was over he was attending school half days 5 days per week. After the summer break he then went to school full time. His behaviors slowly began to decrease as time went on. He responded quite well to the care and the structure that he was given. After time he began to be a "spokesman" for the program that he was in. When DMH officials and others from around the state would come for tours of his home he would always be on hand to tell the about the program and why it worked for him. He went from always being argumentative and assaultive to really listening to other's opinions without flying off the handle.
After 2 years of intensive treatment and growth, he moved into an ISL with a young couple. He has lived with them ever since. Over time, his need to fight or threaten to run away has vanished. He is one of the staunchest supporters of people with disabilities. He does not hesitate to stick up for the underdog. He graduated from high school and goes back to visit his teachers periodically. He looks back at school with fond memories now. He also has an extended family these days. The family that he lives with now have 2 small children that are growing up with him. He remembers the past and what he was like then and knows he has a better future now. He is happy to tell you how far he has come. He has a job and has been steadily working ever since he graduated. He gets upset if there is too much snow and his work is called off due to the weather. He hates to miss work!! He has a girlfriend and enjoys dating. He likes country western music concerts, does volunteer work and participates in community events and activities. The greatest success in his life is that he will tell you how happy he is and how glad he is to live with such a supportive and loving family.
Wow!! Now that's success!!!
