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These Provisions, particularly in section “12VAC35-115-100, Restrictions on freedoms of everyday life,” are well meant, but they are meaningless in the current system.

According to section A1 and A2, we should have “freedom to move within the service setting, its grounds, and the community,” and “freedom to have and spend personal money.” But without reliable transportation services available, or the necessary income (or an appropriate means of earning sufficient income), we are unable to make these things a reality.

Furthermore, it is critical that provisions be added to this section to ensure that we are able to find safe, clean, affordable housing within a community of people who are of a similar age.

Because my family felt as if they were unable to care for me, I was placed in a nursing home at age 22. The feelings of seclusion inherent to being the only person my age in my environment for years on end has exacerbated the sense of isolation I felt already by being disabled.

My isolation is further intensified by the lack of reliable transportation available to me. If I was provided with, or was able to find adequate employment to earn a higher income, I could purchase a van so that my caregivers could drive me to different destinations in the community at my discretion.

But currently, I am completely reliant on RADAR for all of my transportation needs. Since the buses only run at certain times, and require advanced notice, I am extremely limited in my ability to get out and socialize in the community.