7 Questions With
Polly
Heater
How long have you been opening your home to adults with developmental disabilities or living with someone with a developmental disability?
My home has been open for 5 years, 22 years as an Intervention Specialist, and champion for people with intellectual disabilities for as long as I can remember.
What advice do you wish you received when you first started providing services?
I’m switching it up a bit. The advice I would give someone just starting out is… it’s a journey… ”things” aren’t solved overnight and if you are looking you will find some wonderful people along the way!
What is the hardest part about the work you do?
Probably remembering the importance of and making opportunities for self-care.
What is the best part about the work you do?
I feel like I can be their hero, taking care of them, me allowing them to be themselves, expressing themselves the way they feel without taking it personal. Changing someone’s life enough to where they’re stable and they see the change.
What is a dream that you have for yourself?
Retire beachside.
What is the dream you have for the person(s) you are supporting?
A dream I have for the person(s) I support and really all people with intellectual and or physical disabilities is that they can go anywhere and everywhere and be treated with dignity and kindness.
Who do you consider a hero and why?
My heroes are everyday people. Those that show up, those that try their best, those who want to learn and try new things. Those with open hearts and minds and most of all those people who try to leave “something” better than they found it!