Treatment does work and
recovery is possible.
In fact, the examples are endless:
- A woman came to Coleman several years ago experiencing Bipolar II, Adult ADHD, and Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder. She had been evicted from her apartment, was extremely anxious, had thoughts that were coming at her faster than she could cope and was spending money without any control. The services she has received include psychiatry, counseling, and case management. For the first time in her life, she was helped to make sense of what was happening to her and to see how her life could improve. While her illnesses are not gone, she now has the tools to use to live and function independently. She is forever grateful for all that Coleman has done for her.
- An autistic elementary school age child was aggressive when frustrated. The family coped by isolating themselves from the community, by limiting work schedules, and waiting. Coleman helped the child and the family through adjusted medication and case management. The family now has access to community resources that enables respite care, access to specialized sensory and communication equipment, and assistance with applying for other support. The child now has the ability to communicate needs without becoming frustrated and enjoys weekend time with a respite provider. Family reports that the sensory tools help diffuse what were risky outbursts by the child in the past.
- With the increasing demands of caring for an aging parent with dementia, a mother of two was faced with the need to quit her job to provide that care -- a decision which would have caused a financial strain for the family. She discovered Coleman Adult Day Services and has been able to stay employed while knowing that her loved one is receiving quality care in a safe, supportive, socially stimulating setting.
- A preschool child lived with extended family members who had a negative attitude toward the child, stemming from a poor opinion of the biological father. The child’s problems included violence to the family pet, toileting issues, and constant defiance. Parent training for the mother and family therapy for all have resulted in the mother feeling able to care for her child and the attitude in the home changing to one of supportive problem solving.
- A teenage boy had a history of aggression with peers, dependence on his girlfriend and alienation from family. This teen had little engagement in the school, significant frustration with school work and described increasing symptoms of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. Through case management and counseling the teen is now in sports at school, receiving medication for ADHD, and is focused on personal development rather than escaping through inappropriate activity and acting out.
People with mental illness or behavioral challenges can reclaim their lives through the treatment, assistance and encouragement offered at Coleman Professional Services. Accounts of personal journeys could fill volumes. In fact, Coleman helped nearly 15,000 individuals in northeast Ohio during 2009 (62% earning less than $8,000 annually) regardless of ability to pay.
Coleman is able to provide that level of service to the community through the generosity of our donors. Will you please consider a gift? An envelope is enclosed for your convenience or you may give online on the Foundation website – www.coleman-foundation.com. Either method of giving will allow you to designate your gift to the area of most need or to the cause which is closest to your heart.
If you have questions, please feel free to contact Pam Fife, Coordinator of Annual Giving, 330.676.6832 or pam.fife@coleman-foundation.com.
Thank you for your consideration!
