If you live out of state from a sibling with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), you may have to juggle advocacy and individual support plans remotely.
Some situations may be stressful when you live far away, but technology can help bridge the difference.
Siblings tune into Gabriel Homes remotely around the world.
Many residents at Gabriel Homes have siblings who live away from Reston. Some siblings live in California and Italy! No matter where families reside, Gabriel Homes ensures their siblings are on the pathway to success in Reston.
Gabriel Homes reached out to a few siblings who live away from Virginia. They shared their experiences and offered advice for siblings across the United States and abroad:
Beth:
Gabriel Homes leads an annual check-in with the family on how their family member is doing. I don't need to see my brother in person to know he's doing well with Gabriel Homes.
Once, when my dad was on the phone for my brother's check-in, he went over to me and asked me to join him. Being on the call with Dad shifted my thinking about caring for my brother. He has the support of all of us as a family, and the calls make me look at our relationship differently for the better.
Maureen:
When my brother’s company moved from New York to Virginia, so did he! His move ensured he had an incredible network from the start of his next chapter. People who looked out for him moved to Virginia as well. His world grew because he had a world outside his family and Gabriel Homes.
My family and I may not be in Reston, but Gabriel Homes hits a sweet spot for everyone. They make sure he has food, is responsible with his money, and can get involved in amazing things like Saint John Neumann Church.
Carmen:
I may not be close to Reston as much as I used to be, but I’m fortunate that my brother is in a resource-heavy county. Fairfax County has lots of medical assistance for people with special needs.
The Arc of Northern Virginia is a great advocacy and education tool to empower yourself and your sibling. Also take advantage of your networks and talk to other siblings like yourself. I’m active in the Sibling Support Project, where you can ask for advice about hard questions like guardianship.
My brother is self-determined to make his own decisions, and I don't get in the way and critique them. When my brother and I get together, we have a wonderful time together. He gives refreshing points of view when he explains what he’s thinking. My brother is a wonderful person and is such a pleasure to have in my life. I’m proud of his growth since becoming a resident over 25 years ago.
Anonymous Sibling:
Since Covid, siblings should feel more comfortable being remote when their family members are living happy, independent lives. I’m hands-off in my sister’s day-to-day, but I help her with her finances to meet Medicaid and Special Needs Trust requirements.
My brother and I may not live in Virginia anymore, but we have peace of mind knowing our sister is cared for and safe at Gabriel Homes.