To: Governor Jay Inslee
Keep Jesse Collens living independently at home.
Please help support Jesse Collens by fighting for independence and the right to live in the least restrictive environment by receiving 24-hour in-home care.
Why is this important?
I, Jesse Collens, had a mountain biking accident in 2009 that left me paralyzed from my neck down and completely dependent on a ventilator. At the time I was 21 years old, going to college for a BS in biology and chemistry, the assistant kitchen manager of a very popular restaurant, and a very athletic and outgoing person.
Currently I live in a private residence with my elderly mother and because I cannot be left alone she takes care of me when there are no other caregivers around. When my mother or a single nurse is taking care of me it's nearly impossible for me to leave the house; my mother cannot physically do it and the nurse is not allowed to drive me anywhere although they may accompany me if someone else is driving.
If and when my mother is no longer able to take care me at all the only option for me would be to go into a skilled nursing facility where my independence and ability to live life every person is entitled to would be taken away. As a 25-year-old male I am continuing my college education and I still have goals and aspirations as much as anyone else and I would like to see them through.
Currently I live in a private residence with my elderly mother and because I cannot be left alone she takes care of me when there are no other caregivers around. When my mother or a single nurse is taking care of me it's nearly impossible for me to leave the house; my mother cannot physically do it and the nurse is not allowed to drive me anywhere although they may accompany me if someone else is driving.
If and when my mother is no longer able to take care me at all the only option for me would be to go into a skilled nursing facility where my independence and ability to live life every person is entitled to would be taken away. As a 25-year-old male I am continuing my college education and I still have goals and aspirations as much as anyone else and I would like to see them through.