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Kathleen Mary Lewis, a cherished client of CPLF, was born in Quebec in 1951, the youngest of four children. As her sister, Maureen recalls, “Our devoted parents, Margaret and Leon, brought her home against medical advice to place her in an institution”, and began Kathleen’s life in their thriving and busy family. Back in the 50’s, educational opportunities for disabled individuals in rural Quebec were non-existent. In fact, Kathleen was the only neurodiverse individual with Down Syndrome in the Lewis Family’s town. Sacrifices were made, many challenges were faced, but at the end of the day their parents’ love and strong family values shaped Kathleen, her brothers, and sister into the individuals they are today.
Growing up, Kathleen enjoyed participating in everyday activities with her siblings and cherished family vacations by the ocean, playing cards and going on regular outings to their favourite ice cream shack. According Maureen, “A highlight of her day was spending time at our dad’s office, where she had her own desk, stacking papers and assisting the employees.”
In 1978, Kathleen and her family relocated to Calgary to be closer to family and accessed services from Calgary Progressive Lifestyles Foundation (CPLF), a non-profit agency. Here, she connected with her long-term Case Manager, Donna, and began her active involvement in the local community. Throughout the years, Donna has been a dedicated advocate, ensuring Kathleen receives the necessary funding to support her accessible life as a disabled individual. Despite facing challenges such as these, Kathleen found joy in family gatherings, joining a bowling league, and attending social events. Maureen says, “Kathleen is particularly fond of music, singing, and dancing. She also enjoys collecting toy trucks which she guarded with a great sense of responsibility.”
Kathleen’s life then took a difficult turn with the passing of her mother, leaving her family deeply saddened. Kathy’s life was changed forever as she was required to move away from her home and start life with roommates. After a period in an unsatisfactory living situation, their lives were touched by an “incredible individual named Adrienne Sabourin” – the present day CEO of CPLF. Adrienne introduced Kathy to an individual who was searching for a roommate to share her home with: “Adrienne transformed the trajectory of our sister’s life” Maureen expresses. Their initial meeting was truly magical, and their friendship blossomed as the years passed. Their home became a hub of laughter, music, family and friends’ visits, parties, shared meals, and outings, with coffees, hamburgers, and fries; and all time favorite.
Despite facing another loss when her beloved friend and roommate passed away, Kathleen’s family ensured her stability and avoided further trauma by purchasing her home. Maureen says “Thanks to the incredible advocacy of Adrienne and Donna, Kathleen enjoyed retirement in her own home for many years with support.” Just when Kathleen’s future living situation seemed uncertain as her home was put up for sale, a CPLF employee stepped in, offering her a new home and forming a lasting bond. “It was a match made in heaven and a lasting bond was created.” Kathy’s roommate showered her with attention at every turn, providing her with a safe and secure home filled with love, laughter, friendship, and just the best support anyone could ask for. “Donna’s unrelenting work has ensured that Kathy continues to receive supports enabling her to live with dignity. We are so grateful!” Maureen highlights.
Throughout her journey, Kathleen has shown empathy, love, and resilience, touching the hearts of all who meet her with her gentle and kind nature. Spreading kindness wherever she goes, Kathleen’s gentle, loving demeanor leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets. She demonstrates remarkable resilience, remaining true to her faith and love for life and people, regardless of life’s challenges.
Copyright 2024 – Calgary Progressive Lifestyles Foundation
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