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| Nancy's Story |
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Sometimes the smallest stories are the ones that have the biggest impact. In Nancy's case, it's a story of moving from a difficult start to what certainly is a brighter future. Nancy enrolled in the CF program in January 2006 when her daughter Valerie was just 12 days old. At that time Nancy seldom left her home, had no transportation and was unemployed. Caring for an infant when you have limited funds is tough enough. It's even tougher when there is limited or no control over some basic things like your apartment's heating or cooling. The unbearable heat or frigid cold added to Nancy's heightened stress. Despite what she faced, nothing could stop her desire to learn about being the best parent for her daughter. In addition to learning important parenting skills with the help of Children's Futures' South Ward Family Support Worker (FSW) Noemi Torres, Nancy was able to secure medical insurance for Valerie (which was important when Valerie faced subsequent medical emergencies); choose a medical home and specialists for her daughter's care; and find a better apartment where she was able to regulate the temperature. Nancy has also gained full-time employment, easing her financial pain. Just over a year since entering the CF program, Nancy has become a more independent and resourceful parent. She also advocates for other women facing the same types of challenges that she initially encountered as a new mother. Perhaps FSW Naomi Torres said it best, "Women like Nancy inspire me and my colleagues every day. We get to see the worst that life can throw at a person and the best that a person can achieve with a little help for those who care. It's amazing what a person can do when she allows herself to trust others and accept help." |