So Dale had his semi-annual ISP (Individual Service Plan) meeting with his DDS (DC Department of Disability Services). His service coordinator, Ms. Judith, was out today so one of her co-workers conducted the meeting on her behalf.

The meeting was going good. Introductions, pleasantries, reviewing goals, and future goals. Dale was confident in all his answers; even honest about some areas he knows he can improve. Can’t we all, this pandemic has really thrown us all for a loop.

But anyhoo, the service coordinator says well “does your mother have a life insurance policy in place for you in the event of death?” Dale lost it!!! He gets wide eyed and says “FIRST OF ALL, I AM NOT DEAD. SECOND OF ALL I AM STILL ALIVE!!” She immediately apologizes and explained she didn’t mean to offend him but they’re required to make sure he’s cared for even in tragedy. He goes on to say ok, but my mother takes care of all of that stuff and if not her, my grandmother. That was way too personal and I’m not comfortable answering those questions.

My mother who sat in the meeting with him was able to settle him back down so they could finish up the meeting.  Luckily for me, I was wrapping up a conference call when he comes flying upstairs with the “let me tell you what just happened to me!!”

If you know Dale then you know he’s very passionate when he feels strongly about something.  I’m trying to listen to him recap the story for me as I am trying to concentrate on every muscle in my face to not move and burst into laughter. At one point he began to chuckle, thank goodness because I needed to let that laugh out.

All is well. After he was able to get it all out we talked and he had a better understanding of why they ask but his opinion remains the same. GO ASK MY MOTHER!!! Keeping a close hold on personal information was and continue to be a tough area for Dale. He doesn’t do gray areas so it’s hard to teach him who it’s ok to discuss certain matters with and who not to. For that reason we stick with don’t share it. And we do that more so for his safety. There are people who have a whole career out of prying on our exceptional young adults.

Well, when it’s all said and done. Little by little, time after time, he actually hears me. FIRST OF ALL…..LOL!! I’m still stuck there.