Darryl ‘s Journey:
A Testament to Compassion and Dedication
A Testament to Compassion and Dedication
At The Good Shepherd Fund, our mission is to provide unwavering support and care to those in need. Today, we share the inspiring story of Darryl, a testament to the dedication and compassion of our team, particularly Kathy Cardoza, our GSF Care Manager.
A New Chapter for Darryl
Darryl had been living in an Adult Foster Family (AFF) home for nearly 20 years. Over time, it became evident that a change was necessary to ensure his well-being and happiness. This past April, Kathy Cardoza embarked on the challenging yet rewarding journey of relocating Darryl to a new home, a process that took approximately three months and countless hours of coordination and care.
The Transition
Kathy’s dedication to Darryl’s well-being was evident from the outset. She identified the need for the move, coordinated with the AFF’s organization, the regional center, and Darryl’s multi-disciplinary team (MDT), and involved Darryl’s family every step of the way. This meticulous process required nearly 42 hours of Kathy’s time and an additional six hours of support from GSF CARE’s Executive Director and Vice President of Clinical Operations.
Moving Day
Moving day was a significant milestone. Kathy met with Darryl and Johnnie, his caregiver, to begin packing Darryl’s belongings. Despite some initial challenges, such as missing medications and uncooperative behavior from Johnnie, Kathy’s perseverance shone through. With the help of Arlyn from Ablelight, Kathy ensured that Darryl’s items were transported safely to his new home.
Upon arrival, the staff at Darryl’s new home warmly welcomed him, helping him settle in and unpack. Kathy’s efforts didn’t stop there; she took Darryl to lunch, purchased essential hygienic items for him, and made sure he felt comfortable and supported in his new environment.
Settling In
In the days following the move, Darryl began to adjust to his new surroundings. He showed signs of connection with the staff, remembering their names and engaging positively. Although there was a delay in getting him back to his day program due to some paperwork, this extra time at home allowed Darryl to build valuable relationships with the staff.
Kathy’s dedication extended beyond the move itself. She coordinated with Darryl’s regional center and ensured that all necessary documents and medications were in place. Her unwavering commitment ensured that Darryl’s transition was smooth and that his needs were met promptly.
A Heartfelt Message from Family
Darryl’s cousin, Lisa, expressed her gratitude for Kathy’s exceptional work in a heartfelt voicemail. She acknowledged the delicate nature of the situation and praised Kathy’s efforts in navigating it with grace and professionalism. Lisa’s message was a touching reminder of the impact our work has on the lives of our clients and their families.
Looking Ahead
Now that Darryl is settled into his new home, an exciting opportunity awaits him. He has an upcoming trip to visit his family in Ukiah, CA, for the 4th of July. This trip is particularly special as Darryl hasn’t visited his family in years, and they are eagerly looking forward to reconnecting with him.
Reflecting on Success
Darryl’s journey is a shining example of the dedication and compassion that define The Good Shepherd Fund. Kathy Cardoza’s unwavering commitment to Darryl’s well-being ensured a successful transition, highlighting the importance of personalized care and the impact it can have on individuals and their families.
We are immensely proud of Kathy and grateful for the trust Darryl’s family placed in us. Their feedback and support are invaluable as we continue to strive for excellence in our care management services.
Join Us in Celebrating Darryl’s Success
We invite you to join us in celebrating Darryl’s successful transition and the dedication of our team at The Good Shepherd Fund. Your support enables us to continue making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
For more information about our services or to share your own success stories, please contact us. Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone.
This heartwarming story of Darryl G. and the dedication of our team at The Good Shepherd Fund exemplifies our commitment to providing exceptional care and support. We are honored to share this journey with you and look forward to many more success stories in the future.
The Good Shepherd Fund
Your Loved One’s Well-Being Is Our Priority
A 501(C)(3) National Non-Profit Fiduciary
Dedicated to enhancing the lives of minors, aging adults, and persons with disabilities for over 50 years.
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