Why Independent Living?
A Story of Growth and Learning
David Curro
10/21/20262 min read
As a young child, Bret was fascinated with airplanes. For his 11th birthday, I took him on a 45-minute “Discovery Flight” in a Cessna. Bret sat in the copilot’s seat while the flight instructor taught him how to operate the controls. At one point, Bret took full control of the aircraft and flew it himself while I watched from the back seat.
For his 12th birthday, we booked another Discovery Flight. This time, the instructor allowed Bret to perform “touch-and-go” landings. Once again, Bret was flying the airplane. Today, he still loves to fly.
Those experiences taught me something important about my son. Although Bret later tested with an IQ of 65, he demonstrated an ability to learn and perform complex tasks when given the opportunity and proper instruction. His abilities cannot be measured by a test score alone.
Today, at 39, Bret works at a hotel and lives independently in his own apartment. He navigates public transportation, manages a debit card for purchases, and schedules his own doctor and dentist appointments. He is also teaching himself the German language and is proficient.
Bret has demonstrated that he can do many things independently. Like anyone else, he may need guidance and support with certain aspects of life, but that does not diminish his ability to make choices, pursue his interests, and live in his own home.
That is why independent living matters. Adults with developmental disabilities deserve the opportunity to build on their strengths, develop life skills, and live as independently as possible, with outside supports when needed.
As Bret’s father, I am proud of what he has accomplished. But I also worry about what will happen when I am no longer here to help him manage his affairs and navigate life’s challenges.
That is why I am committed to Forest Grove. I want to help create a community where adults like Bret can have a home of their own, maintain their independence, build friendships, and know that support is available when they need it.
Independent living isn't about doing everything alone. It's about having the opportunity to live your own life, make your own choices, and have the right support to succeed.
