Client Success Stories
Get to know the people who call HIL home...
Margaret, affectionately known as Margi, became part of the HIL Sunset family in 2011 when her aging parents, anticipating the future, sought a place where she would be safe, cared for, and able to thrive. It was their wish that she continue to live a life filled with joy, comfort, and dignity—and Sunset became just that place.
Though the transition to a shared home was a new experience for Margi, her warm personality and open heart allowed her to quickly adapt. She soon formed a close bond with her roommate, Deedee, affectionately calling her “Sister.”
Margaret had a sparkle that shone through in everything she did. She loved watching movies, with Harrison Ford being her favorite star. But perhaps most notable was her passion for self-expression. Every day, Margi dressed with intention and flair—always favoring her signature color, purple. Her look was never complete without bright, cheerful jewelry and a generous spritz of one of her many favorite perfumes. To see her was to witness someone who truly celebrated life in all its color and detail.
Her Guardian, Genie, shared how deeply touched she always was by Margi’s enthusiasm and positive spirit. Whenever Genie visited, Margi was eager to share updates on her progress with her hand and neck exercises—her pride and commitment shining through. Genie extends heartfelt appreciation to every caregiver who supported Margi throughout the years. She wishes to recognize the incredible compassion, patience, and kindness shown by the staff, all of whom played an important role in helping Margi live a full and joyful life.
The entire team at HIL Sunset is honored to have walked alongside Margaret in her journey. Her grace, resilience, and light-hearted spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. It was a privilege to care for her, and her memory will remain a cherished part of the Sunset community.
Allie moved to HIL in the summer of 2022. Before that, she lived with her parents, who provided her with loving and devoted care. Recognizing that it was time for Allie to take the next step toward independence, her parents supported her transition into adulthood by helping her move out of their home. HIL was the ideal placement, as it allowed Allie to stay close to her family and continue to visit them regularly.
Upon her arrival at HIL, Allie faced several challenges that were addressed through a comprehensive Behavior Support Plan. These included self-harming behaviors, aggression toward staff, and instances of attempting to leave home without supervision.
Since moving to HIL, Allie has made remarkable progress, and her parents are thrilled with the growth they’ve seen. One of the most significant improvements, they say, is her ability to manage new and unfamiliar situations. For example, where medical appointments once caused her distress, Allie is now able to attend them with staff support as a regular part of her routine.
Allie has also embraced a variety of enriching daily activities. She now enjoys baking with staff, helping with laundry, going for walks in the community, and heading out for her favorite treat—pizza outings! One of her most cherished activities is visiting the local park, where she loves to swing under the sun and enjoy the fresh air.
When asked what she enjoys most about living at HIL Jackson, Allie enthusiastically says, “my staff!” She has formed strong, trusting bonds with the team, and the feeling is mutual. Her staff often say that Allie is the highlight of their day, and her smile brings them endless joy.
We are excited to continue supporting Allie as she grows, learns, and thrives in the years to come.
Ray moved into a 4 bed AFH in June 2021, a home later acquired by HIL in February 2024. At the time, Ray mostly kept to himself—spending his days in his room, watching TV from his favorite chair. He spoke rarely, came out mainly for meals or medication, and often declined invitations to go on outings.
In fall 2024, Ray made a big change—he moved to a larger HIL setting that offered more opportunities for engagement. What happened next surprised everyone.
While previously seen as a quiet introvert, Ray quickly revealed a fun, social, and vibrant personality. He made fast friends with fellow residents, enjoys chatting, sharing laughs, and even playing lighthearted tricks. He’s become a welcoming presence in the home, always ready to greet visitors with his signature three questions: “What’s your first name? What’s your last name? Where do you live?” Then comes his classic send-off: “See ya later, alligator!”—waiting for the cheerful reply, “After while, crocodile!”
Ray also enjoys community outings and especially loves seeing his housemates off to day services each morning—and being the first to welcome them back. A fan of the Smithsonian Channel, Ray often surprises others with interesting facts and zip code trivia.
One of his most remarkable achievements since the move has been his improved physical health. No longer spending all day seated, Ray now actively joins the home’s daily walking group and even motivates others with words of encouragement like, “Come on, you can do it!” His increased activity has boosted not only his health but also his happiness and engagement.
Ray’s journey is a powerful reminder of how the right environment can unlock someone’s true potential. He continues to inspire those around him every day.
