Adventures and Misadventures in Advocating as a Family Member

Years after the events recounted in Rachel Simon’s keynote, her sister Beth and Beth’s boyfriend Jesse began to need more support than they were receiving. Initially drafted by a case manager to step in to assist, Rachel soon transitioned from being a family member who visited monthly to a daily presence who played a major role – or, really, a combination of many roles: direct support professional, case manager, social worker, chauffeur, secretary, on-call support, medical records keeper, pest control, tech assistant, personal shopper, confidante, and warm shoulder. This informal program tells that story, encompassing high moments, crushing disappointments, and the mindset and problem-solving techniques that helped Rachel persevere. A generous portion of time will be given to discussion with the audience.