Appalachian Center for Independent Living: Service Stories

Mr. S
Project: Home Modifications - Ramp
Total Project Cost: $975.00

Mr. S is an elderly gentleman who lives in Jackson County. Mr. S has multiple disabilities including a below-the-knee amputation, hip replacements and pins in his elbow. Due to difficulty with mobility, he was unable to negotiate the steps into his home independently. Mr. S contacted ACIL requesting a ramp. Thanks to the Ross Foundation providing grant funds for Jackson County residents, he did not have to be added to our two year waiting list and the requested service was expedited. Mr. S is now independently entering and exiting his home and is able to access his local community.

Ms. A
Project: Home Modifications - Ramp
Total Project Cost: $2,350.00

Ms. A is an elderly female who lives alone in Jackson County. She has a disabling condition in her leg that causes her to fall easily. Due to her medical problems, she is required to make frequent trips to the doctor for treatment. She travels to the doctor's office by ambulance and paramedics had to carry her from her home to the ambulance because she was unable to safely enter and exit her home. Family members carried her to and from her home to grocery shop or visit relatives.

ACIL staff conducted an assessment and installed a ramp. Ms. A is now able to independently travel and no longer has to be carried by the paramedics to receive medical treatment.

Mr. H
Age: 34
Project: Assistive Technology
Total Project Cost: $1,354.00

Mr. H is a 34 year old man who lives with his parents in Kanawha County. He suffered a stroke and had open heart surgery. He contacted ACIL requesting help with some type of assistive technology that would allow him to bathe independently. After much research, staff located a Tubmate Bath Lift. This device was placed in the bathtub, connected to the water source and raises and lowers Mr. H into the bathtub. Mr. H is now able to bathe independently.

Mr. C
Age: 59
Project: Vehicle Modifications
Total Project Cost: $2,795.00

Mr. C is a 59 year old man with Parkinson's Disease and uses a wheelchair for mobility. Although he is able to drive, he was unable to independently load his wheelchair and had to depend on family and friends for assistance. Mr. C contacted our Center and requested a wheelchair carrier for his vehicle. We were able to provide Mr. C with a carrier through Van Lifts Unlimited. Mr. C is now able to travel about his community independently.