Meet Janet and Amanda: The Best of Friends
People bond over things they have in common, from shared experiences
to favorite hobbies. So it’s not surprising that some people might bond over a shared disability. Amanda Jackson and Janet Dinkle connect over these things and more.
Both were 46 years old when they came to The Home. When they found each other, they became instant best friends.
Amanda and Janet do everything together, from swimming beside each other to eating meals, participating in outings and getting dressed up for special events. They support and encourage each other in all that they do. And throughout it all, they are always laughing and having a good time. The ladies find comfort in the fact that they each have a friend living right across the hallway who understands exactly what their life is like. “We are like sisters” says Janet. “The Virginia Home brought us together,” says Amanda. “And that’s the best.”
Meet Linda: ‘I have a good life, and I’m happy.’
At 58, I’ve lived at the Virginia Home for more than half my life! I never had a real home when I was younger because I didn’t have family that was able to take care of me. I haven’t seen them in a long time.
But I have lived at the home for more than 30 years now, and everybody here is my real family. One of my nurses takes me home with her for the holidays, and it means the world to me. And two other people always take me to Joe’s Inn to celebrate my birthday.
A couple years ago, I went on vacation to Disney World. I’d never been on a plane before – it was exciting! Meeting Mickey Mouse was the best thing I ever did. Every year, I compete in the Special Olympics, and sometimes I win ribbons in the wheelchair race and softball throw. I love to do artwork and make other people happy. I donated my stuffed animals to children in the hospital who might be scared and lonely.
I have a good life now, and I’m happy.