When Dakota’s Support Coordinator Susan Thompson first began working with her, she relied on a wheelchair for mobility. Now, she is able to walk into appointments and stores using her walker, increasing her independence in daily routines. Dakota’s progress in mobility and self care has developed over time, supported by consistent services and coordination through Boone County Family Resources. Over the past year, she has lost more than 80 pounds and built the strength to move around using a walker.

In addition to increased mobility, Dakota and her family have made changes to support her overall health. She has been working on portion control and trying new foods, with her family helping her find meals she enjoys while introducing healthier options. Dakota has also made small adjustments to her eating habits at school.

“At school when we have chicken patties, they have bread. What I do is I break it apart, take the sandwich out, and put lettuce on it,” she said.

Dakota has been connected to Boone County Family Resources since she was five years old. Over the years, BCFR has provided consistent support as her needs have changed, working alongside her family to address mobility, health and daily living needs. Her SC Susan has worked with the family for over two years and remains a consistent point of contact.

“She has helped us out so much with different things going on,” said Theresa. “That’s what’s great about Susan, she has been consistent.”

Susan works closely with the family to coordinate services, attend meetings and help navigate challenges, including ongoing communication with the school system.

“They definitely need support,” Susan said. “It’s nice to have someone there for you when you feel like you are totally alone in situations.”

In addition to coordination, BCFR has supported Dakota’s health and self care by funding personal care and hygiene related items. These supports have helped her build more independence in daily routines. One example is an extended back scrubber with handles, which Dakota uses to bathe more independently. Susan also worked with the family to develop a hygiene plan that fits Dakota’s needs at home while addressing expectations from other systems involved in her care.

“We have a hygiene plan that we put together for her around the fall,” Susan said. “I knew the wants and needs of the family, and I also understood what the school was pushing, so we put together a plan that meets everyone in the middle.”

As Dakota’s mobility has improved, her daily routines have become more manageable at home. Her family has seen steady changes, especially in her ability to move more independently and complete tasks with less assistance.

“It took us 3 years to get her to the point where she is up and walking more,” her mom said. “She has simplified her bedtime and bathroom routine from being able to use the walker.”

During a recent visit, Dakota stood up on her own without using her walker, Dakota was very excited to show Susan, “Miss Susan, look!”

“This is a big deal,” Susan said. “I have not seen her do this before!”

Through long-term support coordination, funding for essential items, and consistent involvement, Boone County Family Resources continues to support Dakota and her family as her needs change over time.