In a heartwarming story of perseverance and support, Ms. Rosa Gonzalez, a Spanish-speaking parent, found herself navigating a challenging journey to secure a brighter future for her daughter, Kamila, who is 10 years old and is diagnosed with autism and ADHD. This journey was not without its hurdles, and with the help of dedicated individuals from Parent Network, Kamila’s story is now one of triumphs. It began when Ms. Gonzalez reached out to Parent Network seeking assistance for Kamila. The initial task at hand was completing a Spanish Vineland assessment, crucial for Kamila’s full OPWDD eligibility. Despite the school district’s responsibility for such assessments, it was clear that Rosa and Kamila were not receiving the support they needed.
“My daughter was in the early intervention program, but once she aged out, she was left with no assistance. It has been very difficult communicating with the school.”
Enter Lisandra and Debbie, two compassionate souls from Parent Network. Understanding the urgency of Kamila’s situation, they stepped in without hesitation. Debbie administered the assessment while Lisandra provided invaluable translation assistance, ensuring Rosa fully understood the process. The completion of the assessment marked a pivotal moment, yet it was only the beginning. Due to delays in the school district, Kamila faced a lapse in her OPWDD eligibility, jeopardizing not only her future but also her Medicaid and SSI benefits. Undeterred by setbacks, Lisandra and Debbie remained steadfast in their commitment to Rosa and Kamila. Over several months, they provided unwavering support, guiding Rosa through the complexities of the system.
“It gives me a lot of hope, not just for me but for other families because if there’s this place that’s willing to fight so hard, and so persistently and care so much, then there are good people still out there.”
Their efforts paid off earlier this year when Kamila finally received her full OPWDD eligibility. They also navigated the complexities of securing Care Coordination and reapplying for SSI, which they got approved for. Rosa’s resilience shines brightly in this narrative. Despite facing her own serious health concerns, she stood as a beacon of strength for Kamila, advocating tirelessly for her daughter.
“Because of how Parent Network fought for me and my daughter, I had gathered more strength to keep the fight going… it made me think that if they’re fighting this hard for me and not just because of a service like a job, why should I stop fighting?”
Kamila’s success is a testament to the power of community and the unwavering dedication of individuals like Rosa, Lisandra, and Debbie. Because of their success, Kamilla “is doing great, and she actually enjoys going to school now and has become more confident.”
Through their efforts, Kamila’s future is now filled with boundless possibilities, evidence of the transformative impact of compassion and support.
