BLOG : The Story of 16 Years between a Consumer and Personal Assistant

My life has been forever changed, and its because of my Personal Assistant Josefa Molina. She has been my PA for the past 16 years, since I was 20 years old. Now, at 36, after college, love, and having a child, I can’t imagine how my life would have turned out without her.

When Josefa came into my life, I was still living with my parents. The home care agency I was with at that time would not allow me to bring my PA with me to college. I was devastated. To be denied the right to attend college because of a disability was both heart-breaking and angering. Josefa, with her caring and supportive nature, actually pleaded my case with the agency which finally helped grant me the freedom to attend college. Her determine and drive, coupled with my own, created a force to be reckoned with. With Josefa at my side, I attended Kingsborough College and studied Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling.

We have shared many fun college memories and educational opportunities thereafter. Years later, I wanted to move out on my own and become independent. Once again, Mrs. Molina went beyond the call of duty by switching agencies to accompany me on my journey of independence. When I moved, Josefa had to commute farther, and work more hours – and she did so with compassion and care. I was so happy to be living on my own, and so grateful to be able to count on her help – even on her off-days. When I decided I wanted to be a mom, Josefa helped me through several miscarriages, and now is with me as I raise my 1 year old daughter.

Having a Personal Assistant has made it possible for me to live on my own independently. With Concepts, I have even more freedom. I have privacy, since I can hire the person I choose and not have strangers coming into my home. This is freedom that we all deserve and are entitled to. My life is rich with experience because of this. Aside from having achieved my degree and becoming a mom, I appreciate other aspects of life: I love to cook, read, go to museums, and I love to enrich the community around me through volunteering. Just before I had my baby, i volunteered for a nonprofit called Pets for Life, helping people find low cost vet care and resources so that they can keep their pets and not have to surrender them. And my career dream is to someday run my own rehab clinic.

As you can see, having Josefa as my Personal Assistant has had incredible impact on my life. She has seen me through personal growth, battling illnesses, finding love, and welcoming my miracle baby into this world.  Her love, respect, and loyal, caring, selfless service has helped me become who I am today. Now that I am a Consumer with Concepts, I know that am assured the choice of my own Personal Assistant, and I am free to keep Mrs. Molina as my PA for as long as we both want.

Written by Milvia Perez