I was recently asked to attend the Crawford County Commissioners’ meeting with Mary Hubbard and Greg Paffhouse. I was asked to discuss the system of care, etc.  I felt very privileged to be asked to speak to this group of people.

As the parent of a child with serious emotional issues, I feel like I am forever seeking out different resources to try to help him and our family through our daily struggles.  The idea of a system of care where all groups work together would be so beneficial.  As I explained to the commissioners, my hopes and dreams for my son are very basic. In fact, I spend many sleepless nights wondering, “Who will take care of my son? Who will make sure he is okay as an adult? How will he support himself? Who will be his friend? Where will he live, who will protect him?,” etc., etc.  If all agencies involved could come together, brainstorm, and circle our family with support, it seems we could cover more areas that are possibly being missed by jumping from agency to agency, etc.  I’m sure we could address more issues and find more resources.

The Crawford County Commissioners were very interested in the system of care as well as the struggles families have that are parents of children with disabilities. They were supportive of CMH, and wanted to help move forward to find as many resources as possible.  By attending this meeting with my son, I feel it gave the commissioners a sample of an actual family that desperately needs the support CMH gives and I feel they also realized that there is always more that can be done to help families.  CMH explained they are constantly trying to find ways to do more for families and I think it was an eye opener for the commissioners.  I appreciate the opportunity to attend this meeting, and I appreciate the support I receive from CMH.