Born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Ofek was not expected to live long enough for preschool. Today he is a 20-year-old gifted and talented computer science major at UMBC.

 

Ofek has grown up at home thanks to his mom, Michelle, a single parent, and his two younger sisters. His sisters, also gifted and talented students, have learned to become skilled caregivers. They can change Ofek's trach and g-tube, connect him to his ventilator and infusion pump, and perform sterile suctioning. They help him access his laptop and TV, and assist him with meals.

 

It has been a long wait on the DDA waiting list for Ofek and his family. But, as his 21st birthday approaches, he and his service coordinator are developing a service plan because DDA received funding to provide day and employment supports to students transitioning out of school into adulthood, known as transitioning youth.

 

Ofek's plan will include nursing, durable medical equipment, transportation vouchers, and support for employment development such as a personal care attendant. This plan will then be submitted to DDA for funding.

 

Ofek does not yet have the DDA funding that will provide the services. When he eventually gets this support, he will have employment earning potential and will keep his medical assistance. The state of MD will then be able to recoup half the funding they provide him from the federal government. Even though he will get employment support, Ofek is not certain how soon he will qualify for services to support him to live independently.

 

Michelle and Ofek are hopeful: "This can be a win-win for all. DDA can fund support for more people like Ofek, who, in turn, have the opportunity for a better quality of life."

End the Wait Now! Campaign, www.endthewaitnow.com