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Friday - November 3rd, 2006

This has been an extremely busy few months.  Tremendous changes are happening for people with disabilities and their families.  I am even dreaming about work at night.  I think I need a vacation.
The Federal government – Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) – approved New Mexico’s Medicaid Home and Community-Based Waiver Mi Via.  This is the culmination of thousands of hours of work over several years by self-advocates, families, advocates, service providers and state employees.  Mi Via is the most comprehensive home and community-based waiver in the country.  No other state has even attempted to put together a program that covers all disability groups, including brain injury, with a selection of services that encompasses almost anything anyone with a disability would need and still gives control of the money to the individual receiving services.  Everyone who had a hand in bringing Mi Via into existence should pat themselves on the back.  It is a job well done!
Our daughter, Jennifer, has a very simple ISP so I don’t think we will hurry to change to Mi Via.  She also has a great case manager – Randy - who has been very helpful and I’m not interested in reducing his time with us.  I am, however, very happy that another choice exists if we do want something different in the future.  So much to think about.  Such a tired brain.
I am trying to have a real life in addition to work.  I can’t believe that it is past time to start thinking about Thanksgiving and Christmas.  We usually have Thanksgiving at my parents’ house and then everyone comes to our house for Christmas.  There could be as many as 20 people to feed.  Time now to start the lists – presents, invitations, menus, shopping, etc. 
I hope you have a very safe and fulfilling holiday season.

Doris

Posted by
Friday - November 3rd, 2006

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