Gratitude Spotlight: Meet Abigail — Finding Hope and Independence

Gratitude Spotlight: Meet Abigail — Finding Hope and Independence

When Abigail turned 18, she was worried about her future. She faced the possibility of institutional care and wondered if she would ever be able to live on her own. What she wanted most was independence, and she knew she was capable of it if she could just find the right support.

Abigail describes herself as creative, a people-person, and “really funny, even unintentionally.” She is proud of her ability to stay positive and keep pushing forward even when things are hard. That determination is what led her to Independence, Inc. She remembers thinking, “I don’t need to be in a nursing home. I’m too independent for that. I just need some help in my home.”

From the very beginning, Abigail felt something different about Independence, Inc. She noticed right away that staff were not just “doing their jobs.” They cared enough to step in immediately, to listen, and to follow through. She received assistance to restore her apartment, help with day-to-day needs, and technology that makes it possible for her to stay in her home safely. She also found advocacy — people willing to stand beside her and support her vision of independence.

“It feels amazing,” Abigail says. “Like a million weights are off my shoulders. I felt like everything was against me, and now I feel like people are rooting for me. That’s so helpful.” She adds that what she is most grateful for is the way Independence, Inc. refuses to give up. “You didn’t just help me at the bare minimum and walk away. You go above and beyond and keep helping. The care is there. You swooped in when others couldn’t help.”

Abigail now looks forward to building a safe, comfortable home where she can enjoy her hobbies and spend time with her two cats, Beans and Luna (nicknamed “Toast”). Most of all, she looks forward to continuing her journey toward living fully and independently.

When asked what she would tell others who may be facing similar struggles, her answer comes easily: “I highly recommend Independence, Inc. Coming here will be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made. You guys are freaking awesome. You actually help, and you actually care.”