When Maryland shut down during COVID, many families suddenly lost access to the traditional services they relied on every day. For Bridget, that loss brought her daughter Maura’s needs into abrupt focus. Maura requires 24-hour care, and with provider agency services stopping during the pandemic, their family had to quickly find a way to keep her safe, supported, and connected. That’s when Bridget discovered self-direction, an option that ultimately transformed their lives.
Self-direction allowed Bridget to be compensated for the care she had already been providing while also giving her the freedom to hire familiar, trusted staff who knew Maura well. With a husband who has a spinal cord injury and is unable to assist with Maura’s daily needs, this flexibility brought crucial stability to their home. For the first time in a long time, Bridget felt a sense of relief. Their caregiving team not only understood Maura’s routines and personality, but also respected her individuality. “It brought comfort to all of us,” Bridget shared, saying the closeness of long-term staff helped ease the chaos of an unpredictable time.
As Maura’s team grew, so did her world. Support staff began involving her in the activities she loves most – weekly dances, nature walks, shopping trips, library visits, recreation programs, and regular church participation. With guidance from her support team, Maura is learning strategies that help her feel more at ease during community outings, including remaining comfortable and engaged in public spaces. These small victories have created big change. Maura is now recognized by many people in the community, giving her a sense of belonging that once felt out of reach. Bridget also sees a clear difference in Maura’s behavior when she is with her staff, proof of how consistency, respect, and person-centered support can help someone thrive.
Self-direction hasn’t only improved Maura’s daily life; it has improved Bridget’s as well. Having reliable, trained caregivers has allowed her to focus on her own wellbeing, reconnect socially, and reclaim parts of life she had put on hold. Yet she remains deeply involved in all aspects of Maura’s care: finding and training staff, approving timesheets, planning activities, and coordinating every detail that ensures Maura’s days are enriching and structured. Her advice for other families starting out is simple, “Treat staff with kindness and respect, stay focused on the needs and wishes of the person receiving services, and always remember that self-direction is about them, not the parent.”
Today, Maura’s life is fuller, more joyful, and more connected because of the choices her family has made. Bridget’s commitment, paired with the flexibility of self-direction, created a support system centered on belonging, dignity, and meaningful community involvement. Their story captures exactly what My Life, My Choice is all about. Building a life around the person, their strengths, and the people who know and love them best.