Client Profile: Sandy Fries

25 Sep Client Profile: Sandy Fries

In 1978, there were not a lot of programs or services available for persons who had experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Sandy Fries lived in Illinois near St. Louis, but moved to Indiana into the New Hope of Indiana residential program, despite the distance from her family, to receive services. She lived on A-pod/Alpha Hall, later moving to Beta Hall, which specifically served individuals with TBI. Sandy was eventually able to move out into her own apartment with a Medicaid waiver. She needed additional supports, but also was very lonely, so she decided to move to the Countryside home in Supported Living, where she continues to reside today.

Sandy is an avid sports fan and likes to watch the Indiana Pacers, Indianapolis Colts and the winter Olympics. She loves listening to music on her iPad, and Blake Shelton and Gwen Stafani are some of her favorite musicians. Not surprising, she also watches the TV show The Voice where she likes to watch them as judges. Sandy attends the Payne Road Day Services. She likes to paint and has been involved in some of the art classes in the past. She is hoping to attend again in the future. She shared that she has friends but would like to have a male companion to enjoy things together. Sandy stays in touch with her family. Her sister, Nancy, lives in Maryland and Sandy is hoping to go visit her sometime.

Sandy has a delightful sense of humor, but it is no joke that she has been a pleasure to serve the last 40 years!