Meet Wanda Viellieux.  After finding out she could make her better self-direct her supports and services through IRIS, she was better able to fulfill her passion of volunteering.  She believes that everyone has the right to be involved in making decisions and is a firm believer in self-determination.  We’re so fortunate to have as a member of the Network!

How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network? 

Wanda decided to transfer from Family Care to IRIS because she was not getting what she needed.  She wanted to make her own choices about who she wanted to hire for the services she needed.  “I’ve been very happy as the decisions I have made; they have fulfilled what I absolutely needed,” Wanda said.  She joined the Network because she wanted to keep updated on the latest news affecting Self-Determination.  She has wanted to attend conferences, but barriers such as distance, transportation and finances have kept her from being able to do that.  “The unfortunate part of self-determination is that I live in a more rural part of the state and some services I need are more scarce,” she pointed out.

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination?   

Wanda looks to the Self-Determination Network to get the latest news about the programs and services that she uses. She has followed the 2017 Long-Term Care changes especially close. The Network “gave me the information I needed to contact state legislative people to advocate for myself and others who may be in my situation,” Wanda said.

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?  

Wanda encourages people to be determined and do not let other people tell you otherwise.  Everyone has the right to be involved in their own care.  She said, “if you believe you are not getting the care you should be getting, go ahead and make other appropriate contacts to get the care you need.”  Wanda suggests that people get involved in learning how they can be his/her own “best advocate” and also knowing when they need to ask for someone they can trust to advocate on their behalf. 

What message would you like to share with the members of the SD Network?    

Wanda wants people to know that having disabilities or limitations in some areas of your life does not make you less dignified or less important than anyone else.  She said, “we all have differing abilities which makes life much more interesting and fun. Sometimes it can get frustrating and depressing, keep believing in yourself and what your goals are."

What are some of your hobbies?   

Self-directing my services helps Wanda remain an active part of her community.  She doesn’t have much time for hobbies as she’s an avid volunteer.  She has been a disaster volunteer for the American Red Cross since 1997, and her current focus is on disaster preparedness.  She’s also a VFW Auxiliary lifetime member.  She’s very active in supporting our veterans as patriotic instructor where she goes into schools and community youth groups to do flag programs, and to recognize how they support our veterans.  In addition to all of that, she’s involved in her church and is a presenter to youth and adults.  “These three areas of my volunteer work are also where my passion in life is.  It is so fulfilling when you can find your passion in something you love to do.  That’s what enriches my life so much more,” Wanda said.

 ***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.