Submitted by Lookout Mountain Community Service Board
Donnie grew up in rural Trion, Georgia. He lived on a small farm where he enjoyed southern cooking, especially pinto beans with onion and cornbread which he still talks about regularly. In 1984, when his parents were no longer able to care for him, he was admitted to Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital.
He spent the next 27 years in various units at the hospital. In June of 2011, Donnie moved from to the Magnolia CLA in Summerville. Little did the staff know at that time the great gift they had received when this gentleman moved into his new home. Donnie had become dependent on a feeding tube and often needs oxygen to assist with his breathing. He had learned ways to deal with stress and also how to get people not to bother him. He would curse and spit. Despite his defenses, the staff at Magnolia fell in love with him instantly.
Over time his mental status was evaluated, and as much as he tried to shut people out they wanted to help him, to love him more, and for him to be happy. He was given a new medication, which seemed to have a positive effect overnight. He seemed more at peace with himself, and he doesn’t spit anymore. He still curses sometimes, but it’s usually with a smile. He hugs and smiles more, and he seems to love himself more.
Any staff that works with him can’t help but love him. He likes to give hugs now and he has become more comfortable in his home. His room is decorated with the things that are important to him. He loves money and Coca-Cola. No one knew these things about him when he moved into Magnolia CLA, but the caring staff was able to get him to open up and share his hopes, dreams, likes and dislikes. He doesn’t talk a lot, but the staff takes the time and sits with him, and even though he speaks in short or one word sentences, he will talk about things that make him happy. He tells staff what he needs or wants.
Donnie is considered medically fragile, but he often attends community functions and attended all of one of his housemate’s baseball games this spring. Donnie needed a caring home, and he found it at Magnolia CLA, but he has given the staff so much more.
5 replies on “Olmstead Success Story: Donnie”
Individual like Donnie, helps me to stay focus, and appreciative for success story.
Glad you enjoyed the story!
The story above is quite interesting. It helps me appreciate those who invested time and resources in my own recovery process and that of others. Kindly keep me abreast of these life changing stories to help in our local wellness outreach.
Bill Jallah
We definitely have more stories to share. Thanks for reading!
As a member of the LMCS board, I have had the pleasure of witnessing the dedication to consumers the staff of LMCS has exhibited for several years. I continue to be proud to be associated with these professional providers. Donnie is but one of hundreds of consumers that need continued intervention so as to make their lives enjoyable and fulfilled. Our state politicians should be as fortunate as I in seeing the difference all community service board staff make for all consumers in this state.