Brandon seen here with his wife MeganThe best way to describe Brandon is to tell the story of how he gave up his personal sense of dignity to ensure to a person he cared for was able to feel comfortable in the community. In our agency, we refer to this story as the “Pants Story.” In July, 2010, Brandon was on a medical appointment when an individual he served had an uncharacteristic accident. This individual relieved himself because of his anxiety about the appointment, and since this individual was not known for doing this, no extra change of clothing was made available. The individual was wracked with embarrassment. Yet another experience where his disability caused him not to fit in with the community. Yet another experience of being recognized for something that was just wrong.
As Brandon has a devotion to the people we serve and particularly their sense of comfort to be a part of the community (inclusion), Mr. Schoonmaker gave up his pants and both walked out of the restroom together, the individual with Brandon’s pants on and Brandon in his boxer shorts with a shirt wrapped around his waist just to show good faith and not walk around in his boxer shorts. The individual walked out with a sense of relief from not being the target of ridicule, while Brandon felt a sense of purpose…a symbol of devotion to the values we hold dear as an agency.”
Irwin Siegel Agency is honored to recognize all Direct Support Professionals who go to work each day with a mission to improve the lives of others. With the belief that all people can learn and grow regardless of obstacles thrown in their path, small differences are made transforming disabilities in to abilities.
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