Yaacov Discovers a New Life
OHEL Bais Ezra became aware of Yakov Bran in August 2008. We were told of a young man who was living with his mother at her hospital bed for over two months. His mother, a Holocaust survivor, provided for all of his needs prior to her becoming ill. When his mother became sick,Yakov accompanied her to the hospital, as he could not live alone. With no other family to care for him, he seemed lost and alone.
For Yakov, she was not only his mother, but this closest companion and friend. At the same time, Yakov's mother was slowly deteriorating and unable to care any longer for any of his needs. While Yakov's mother loved him and looked after his every need, he had over the years become completely reliant on her and this sense of dependency limited his own growth potential. He unfortunately had made very few decisions for himself and as such, Yakov suddenly found himself ill prepared and unable to cope with typical day-to-day life issues.
Fortunately, a family friend aware ofYakov's predicament contacted OHEL and in less than one month, Yakov found a new home and a supportive OHEL Bais Ezra family. Unfortunately, his mother died shortly thereafter, but thankfully he now had a new home and a loving OHEL Bais Ezra Family. In just one short year, Yakov's life has transformed from one of isolation and dependency to one blossomed with self-realization, independence and endless opportunity.
Over the past year, Yakov has thrived within a safe and loving environment. He has gone out on numerous outings and trips with his peers and has been involved in programs and activities once thought impossible by anyone who previously knew him. His Direct Care staff commented that Yakov could not stop smiling during his first outing with the home to an entertainment center in Long Island- and he still cannot contain his enthusiasm for every other trip!
Yakov has made friends and can now name his 10 roommates and over 20 staff that care for him every day. He has learned and applied new life skills that he never imagined he could achieve on his own. These include, not only Yakov's self care skills, but the ability to learn, make informed choices for himself and to create a productive and fulfilling life with peers of his choice.
OHEL Bais Ezra did not just welcome an individual and provide a place to live. Yakov has discovered a new life- his life. Like thousands of OHEL Bais Ezra individuals whose lives are elevated every day, Yakov has overcome many challenges and is a truly courageous individual, a son his late mother would be especially proud of.
