Out of nowhere, I received a call from Attorney Benton Martin. There was a federal hearing at the Federal Building — a medical release hearing for my father, Larry Chambers. I was the only family member in that courtroom. The legal teams went into the judge's chambers, and when the lawyers walked back out they pulled me into the hallway and said: “It looks like your father is coming home. You have 30 days. Prepare.”
I flew to FMC Devens, Massachusetts to bring him home. Two correctional officers wheeled him out and offered their apologies for his condition. They said they wished the system had released him earlier — when he still had a fighting chance.
The Sacrifice Nobody Talks About
Like so many Americans, I assumed my support system would rally. It did not. People have their own lives, their own responsibilities. I put my real estate career and every other professional endeavor completely on hold to be there for my father around the clock. I also had to step away from my position with the City of Detroit Water & Sewage Department.
I was now a full-time caregiver with no income — doing it completely alone, out of pocket, every single day. Not because no one cared, but because most people simply didn’t know what to do, and the system made it nearly impossible to find help effectively.
The Three Programs That Helped Us
Program 1: MI Home Help Program
This Medicaid-funded program provides in-home personal care hours for eligible individuals. Unlike most programs, there is NO waitlist.
- Ensure your loved one has active Michigan Medicaid
- Have their doctor complete form DHS-54A
- Contact your local MDHHS office
- Complete caregiver form DHS-390
Program 2: MI Choice Waiver (DAAA)
Provides nursing-home-level care for adults who want to remain in their home. There IS a waitlist but it’s worth every day of the wait.
- Find your county’s MI Choice waiver agency
- Call for a phone assessment
- Complete in-home eligibility assessment
- Work with supports coordinator
Program 3: Self-Directing Services (DWIHN)
Allows you to become the Employer of Record for your loved one’s care. Available in Wayne County.
- Call DWIHN Access Center at 800-241-4949
- Request Self-Directing Services
- Choose a Financial Management Services agency
- Complete required paperwork and training
- Follow up regularly with your coordinator
What I Want Every Family To Hear
Start the process immediately. Have patience. Be proactive and persistent. Stack your waivers when possible. Advocate loudly and escalate when necessary. Get everything in black and white.
My father is Larry Chambers. If someone showed up for him — I will make sure you know every program that can help your loved one too.
In my next issue: The pitfalls I encountered navigating these programs — and exactly how you can avoid them.