Linking Employment, Abilities and Potential

Our Stories

Advocating to Live Independently

Picture: Judah surrounded Jasmine & Kari from LEAP


Judah began her self-advocacy journey at 74 years old.


After a severe bout of COVID-19, affecting her muscles, Judah found herself hospitalized. Upon her discharge, she transitioned to a rehab nursing home, intending to stay temporarily. Yet, as she prepared to return home, she faced numerous unexpected hurdles.


One day, Judah notices Jasmine Watts, a LEAP Community Health Worker and Transition Coordinator, carrying a LEAP folder while visiting her nursing home. Hoping LEAP can support her, Judah strikes up a conversation with Jasmine. She voiced her concerns about moving home.


Judah revealed her insurance provider approved her return home, along with a home health aide and an electric wheelchair. However, the nursing home was pressuring her to stay, even resorting to the threat of involving adult protective services if she left. Even the friendliest staff members said their hands were tied with the facility's policies, highlighting the systemic challenges faced by many patients in similar situations.


"Sometimes, I didn't feel human but a number," said Judah.


Understanding her frustration, Jasmine immediately got to work. She continuously reassessed Judah's needs every step of the way. During the move-out process, Judah required additional support, which LEAP was able to provide.


Judah needed two things:

  • An adult-size non-electric wheelchair as a backup: She needed this when her electric wheelchair did not work or was incompatible with her transportation.
  • A hospital bed: She was sleeping in a recliner because she used the lift to support her standing up.


How Jasmine Supported Judah:

  • Items: She found Judah a non-electric wheelchair, a hospital bed, a bedside commode, and other personal items.
  • Safety Proofing: Jasmine safety-proofed her home during each visit.
  • Consistent Contact: She assisted Judah with follow-ups and contacted her doctors.
  • Navigating Insurance: Jasmine read Judah's mail from her insurance company and answered her questions until her Home Health Aide started.


Judah finally feels like her best interest is at heart. "[LEAP] is very, very good [at] helping and wrapping services around [people]. Some places are doing [it] for the agency and not the client. Thank God for you, guys. I had been trying for over a year for a bed. And I know if I don't hear anything, I can call LEAP," says Judah.


Working with Jasmine, Judah no longer felt like a number. She felt human.


"Jasmine was very nice. She always followed up with me. It is good to know you're not forgotten. That's a blessing – having people thinking about you…She has a wonderful personality, and thank you to LEAP for hiring her. She belongs here helping people."


Great job self-advocating, Judah! We are so happy that you are finally home!