Allison’s Dream Come True

Latham Centers is a strength-based program dedicated to providing excellent services. Our mission statement is focused on the individuals we serve~ “We compassionately and creatively help children and adults with complex special needs to lead meaningful, abundant lives.”

A number of years ago when I was working in a residence with 4 individuals with PWS, I asked each one to tell me his or her dreams. Some of the items on Allison’s list included to work with individuals with AIDS, get a job, and go to Ireland (the country where her parents came from). That year, Allison and I worked to achieve a few goals. Allison got a job in the community and started volunteering to help a local AIDS drop in center. Allison’s commitment to volunteer in the community enriched many lives; those her volunteer services helped and her housemates who were inspired to join her. While her third goal took longer, Allison was not deterred. She worked and saved for the next few years and was able to take her dream trip to Ireland.

While I did not work with Allison in the same capacity, she chose me to support her on her trip. What a special time seeing Allison reveling in delight as she visited the town her ancestors came from and various other sites. Not only that, but Allison was also able to enjoy all the local food and only had a minimal weight gain. At one point in Allison’s life she had been over 500 pounds, she was 300+ when she arrived at Latham. Her current weight is around 120 pounds. Without a program helping Allison achieve her goal weight and optimal health, she would not have been able to achieve her dreams.

Congratulations Allison!

“Dreams are illustrations… from the book your soul is writing about you.”
~Marsha Norman