Finding the Right Fit
A change in living situation sets woman on path to success.
by Shauna
Sheffer
Nichole Tappe is a spunky
young woman with many stories to share with the world. The most
interesting is of her life. A complicated birth left Nichole with
a brain injury and cerebral palsy. “I
have trouble with my memory, temper, outbursts, and depression,” stated
28-year-old Nichole.
To receive the level of personal care she needs, Nichole started living at a
group home. Unfortunately, the environment was not a fit and she began displaying
disruptive behaviors, like running over staffs’ feet with her electric
wheel chair. Nichole’s mother, Pam, constantly received upsetting calls
from Nichole and the group home staff; she was beside herself.
At this point, management
of Nichole’s health case was transferred
to the Brain Injury
“Nichole
is now able to put her energy into enjoying her favorite activities,
like boy watching and shopping, and she’s thankful for
her first job and the new independence it brings.”
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Association of Minnesota and
Jennifer Taylor, a case manager at the Association, began managing
her care to make sure she was receiving the appropriate services.
Pam found an immediate connection with Jennifer. “It was great to find someone who
understood where I was coming from,” said Pam.
Together, Jennifer and Pam determined that that group home did
not provide the right environment for Nichole. Jennifer worked
with Pam to find Nichole a different group home where staff really
understands brain injury and effective accommodation strategies.
Today, the difference is astounding. Nichole has been in the new
home for just six months and has already started turning her disruptive
behaviors around. The staff works with Nichole to set goals and
a reward system that is effective for her.
Because of the support from friends and family, consistent group
home staff and the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota, Nichole
is now able to put her energy into enjoying her favorite activities,
like boy watching and shopping, and she's thankful for her first
job and the new independence it brings. ![]()
