Jeff

Jeff likes to joke around. Some nights he can be found engaged with his housemates in a fiercely competitive game of Sorry, his favorite board game. That may sound like a simple activity, but for Jeff it is a sign of a life renewed.

Just a few years earlier, Jeff was diagnosed with Huntington’s Disease, a progressive degenerative disease that attacks the nervous system. Having watched his father die from the same illness, Jeff understood that his life was about to take a radical turn.

As the disease progressed and symptoms advanced, his mother could no longer care for him and Jeff had to move to a nursing home. The sudden change in schedule and lack of independence was not easy for Jeff. He lost 40 pounds, about 30 percent of his total body weight. He spent most of his time in isolation. Sudden, uncontrollable movements characteristic of the disease made walking difficult, but despite this Jeff used all his strength and any opportunity to run away.

Then he found Homes for Independent Living, and moved into the Courtland Group Home in DePere, Wisconsin. The initial adjustment was difficult, but Jeff finally found an environment that allowed him to thrive and grow. Determined to give Jeff the freedom he deserves, his caregivers at Courtland worked with him so he could walk on his own without assistance, and socialize with others living in the home. He regained the 40 pounds he lost, and he appreciates being able to eat when he wants to.

Now Jeff’s days are filled with activity, engagement, and meaning. In addition to those heated board games, he participates in shopping and other community outings. He also uses the Internet to keep in close contact with his brother, John.