Meet Allison
Member at the Cerebral Palsy League

Allison is a 59-year-old woman who at times struggles with the daily challenges of life with cerebral palsy. With assistance from her Support Coordinator, Allison and her family developed an Individual Support Plan which led to identifying essential life skills that Allison needed to achieve her future goals. Allison’s plan required nursing care during the day and goals regarding stability and improvement in health.

In May of 2019, after visiting a variety of Day Programs, Allison and her family decided to enroll Allison in the Cerebral Palsy League’s Adult Day Habilitation Program. During the day, Allison enjoys her time socializing with her friends. She participates in activities with support from the staff and is closely monitored by the program nurse.

Back in July 2024, in the day program, the nurse observed that Alison took an unusually long time to complete her meal. Through close monitoring she realized that she had difficulty swallowing her food.

Dysphagia is the term that describes eating, drinking, and swallowing difficulties and is common for individuals with cerebral palsy. If not treated appropriately dysphagia can lead to other health complications that may have affected Allison’s quality of life. If her dysphagia is not managed, Allison would be at risk of choking, pneumonia, chest infections, dehydration, malnutrition, or weight loss.

Knowing the importance of quick intervention, the nurse in the program sprang into action and communicated her concerns to the program director. Through collaboration with the Division of Developmental Disabilities Allison was evaluated and interventions and strategies were put into place to remedy Alison’s condition. Currently, Alison’s nutritional status has improved, but a lot more needs to be done to get her to optimal status. She is being closely monitored and staff is working hard to address any problems that arise.

Allison’s story is a great success and wonderful example of how the funds from the Westfield United Fund help to change the quality of individuals’ lives and make a difference in our local community.