I am a c5-6 complete quad. I have to say I'm very happy with my current living situation, but it took me years and hard work to get here.
I bought a Townhome in Tempe, AZ and made it accessible for me (ramps, roll-in shower, etc.) I have a live-in caregiver who gets paid 35 hrs/wk for my care. I am enrolled on Arizona's Medicaid program called AHCCCS [we say access,] and also receive long term care services [ALTCS.] The KEY to my success is a program I helped advocate for called "Freedom to Work." I no longer receive any Social Security benefits because this program allows me to work full-time, earn a living wage, yet still keep my Medicaid coverage. I pay $30 per month, plus $1.10 co-pay for my Baclofen. Of course, my work earnings are taxed like anybody else. I don't earn enough to live the high life--I'm basically working to pay my bills--but I have the satisfaction of working, I have my own home, and I have just enough left over for a few drinks with friends or a date or two. I will be ok unless my job gets cut or the Freedom to Work program gets cut. I've talked to my representatives about how it's a win-win program, and they all agree. Still, you never know what politicians will do. If anyone has questions about my situation feel free to email me directly. Don in AZ ----- Original Message ----- From: Adam Collinsworth To: [email protected] Sent: Wednesday, June 30, 2010 10:28 AM Subject: [QUAD-L] Help Hey Everyone, It has been a while since I posted. I hope you don't mind me asking but what is everyone's living situation? Are you in a group home, nursing home, apartment, independent living situation? My situation is changing and I am looking for my best option. I am a C 3/4 quad who needs about 50 hours of care. Any info would help. Thank you, Adam
