Sooner SUCCESS
This collaboration between the Council and Sooner SUCCESS increases current respite options available in Oklahoma for those identified as primary caregivers of children and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD). Caregivers include parents, single individuals, and others who may fall in the caregiver category. All caregivers supporting an individual with I/DD is eligible, regardless of current status in seeking support services for their child.
These opportunities will offer caregivers and self-advocates social connections, support, and a chance to rest.
This collaboration supports the Council Goal number 2, Objective 2 of its 5-Year State Plan: Oklahomans with developmental disabilities and their families will have increased access to resources, services and supports across the lifespan that will allow them to live their best lives.
For more information about this collaboration, contact Sooner SUCCESS at (405) 271-2710 or email sooner-success@ouhsc.edu
Reviews from the Caregiver Respite Retreat:
From C. Johnson
"Nobody gets it. I'd love to be able to the family on fun adventures and memory-making trips, but that's just not in the stretched budget. Or for the hubs and I to get away for a weekend, but that an option either. Or to have the space in our home to spread out, but nope. And it's OK! As long as I keep in perspective that God hasn't asked us to walk this very different journey alone.
One year ago we were connected with a resource called Sooner SUCCESS and it's brought a world of change for us in terms of information, education and resources. As a full-time unpaid caregiver I NEVER get a break. Until this past weekend. Sooner SUCCESS provided a handful of families with a 36 hour respite at Roman Nose, all expenses paid, meals provided, naps included. I'm throwing up my hands in gratitude! It's amazing what that bit of time away did for us! We connected with other families in similar situations, we shared meals we didn't have to prepare, we played a terrible round of mini golf, we took a hike, shared life around a bonfire, got a neck/should massage, played oodles of Bingo and card, won a ton of prizes and came home completely refreshed and ready to fight the good fight for our kids. Our kids deserve our best, and it's hard to be our best when we're running on empty.
From S South:
I had a blast and definitely got to rest and recharge. Looking forward to working with you again!
Quotes from our anonymous surveys:
"So thankful for the retreat because we wouldn't be able to get away without it!"
"This was very helpful. It has helped me so much!"
"I enjoyed the retreat. I haven't been away in forever."
"The retreat has been an incredible blessing! We're made friends and feel seen (heart emoji)"
"The caregiver retreat was amazing! Thank you so, so much for the opportunity to relax & refresh."
