BEVERLY'S STORY

Her knee pain had become so bad, that Beverly was forced to leave her position at a large investment firm in 2004, filing for disability benefits.

 

“Because of my role, I was unable to leave my desk and the stiffness and pain just got too unbearable. I had no choice but to leave and file for benefits.”

 

A two-time breast cancer survivor, Beverly was able to spend more time with her family and volunteer at her church’s food bank, but the pain was preventing her from having a good quality of life.

 

Beverly eventually had knee surgery in 2014, and although it helped a little, she still experienced severe pain.

 

“I had to hold on to the heater in my bathroom every time I got in or out of my shower,” says Beverly. “When using the toilet, I had to grab onto the sink and the door when I got up because I thought my knee would give out and I would fall. I was scared.”

 

Because the pain was still present, she decided to get a second opinion and eventually had a second surgery in 2017. The results this time were better, but she came to terms that she would likely always have some pain.

 

Still dealing with stability issues when using her bathroom, a friend referred her to the Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP) at Metro Housing. HMLP is a statewide program that helps elders and people with disabilities increase the accessibility of their residences through no interest loans.

 

“I called Metro Housing and spoke to Jennifer Shaw, who was wonderful. She guided me through the entire process, from filling out the application to the selection of contractors. I was very pleased.”

 

Beverly’s bathroom was made over, and grab bars were installed in her shower and toilet areas. A fold down seat was added to her shower for added support.

 

“I am so very grateful, pleased, and thanks to God that I was referred to Metro Housing and the Home Modification program. It is so much easier now for me to get in and out of my bathroom. It is truly wonderful.”