Annual Report 2025: Tabby's Story
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- 11 minutes ago
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Tabby has been a client in APSI’s East Central region for over 20 years. According to Jacolyn, her APSI Protective Services Representative (PSR), Tabby's personality can be described as loving, explosive, and caring, qualities that shine through in everything she does. Over the years, Tabby has shown growth in developing coping skills that work best for her: she walks away and takes a few minutes to herself, a skill that has made all the difference in her relationships and daily life.
Perhaps most importantly, Tabby feels heard. When asked how APSI has helped her achieve something meaningful, Tabby's response was simple: she feels like her guardian listens to her. This sense of being valued and understood has been fundamental to her growth and increasing confidence.
One of Tabby's proudest accomplishments is her journey to becoming smoke-free, a milestone she has now maintained for over five years. The path wasn't easy. "When I quit, it was hard," she recalls, "but I had help." With support from her staff, she gradually reduced her cigarette intake until she reached just one cigarette a day. Then, in a moment of determination, she threw that last cigarette out and was done for good.
Her success inspired her roommate Jimmy, who also quit smoking cold turkey after seeing Tabby's achievement. Their mutual support during this challenging time strengthened their friendship and demonstrated the ripple effect of positive change. Her advice to others considering quitting smoking? "If I can do it, they can do it," she says.
Jacolyn notes that Tabby's days are filled with activities that bring her joy and purpose. She attends a day program five days a week, where she's supported by staff members like Crystal and Bre, who Tabby identifies as people who have inspired her along the way. She's also actively involved in a book club and People First, organizations that provide her with community and opportunities for self-advocacy.
In her free time, Tabby loves going out to eat and shopping, simple pleasures that reflect her growing independence and confidence in navigating her community. Weekend yard sales have become a favorite pastime, with summer offering an abundance of treasures to discover.
At the heart of Tabby's story is her deep capacity for caring, perhaps best exemplified by her relationship with her four-year-old cat, Tabatha. Getting Tabatha was something Tabby really worked toward, demonstrating both the financial and personal responsibility needed to care for another living being. She bought Tabatha as a kitten and has wholeheartedly embraced the daily commitment. "Every day I take care of her. She's my responsibility," Tabby says with pride. This daily act of caregiving has given her purpose and joy, and Tabatha has become a beloved member of their household, greeting visitors with friendly curiosity.
Her friendship with Jimmy, her roommate of five years, has been equally meaningful. Together, they've supported each other through challenges, celebrated achievements, and created a home environment filled with mutual respect and companionship.
Today, Tabby continues to focus on her health goals, working toward a healthier overall lifestyle. Jacolyn observes that Tabby has become "more calm and responsible.” Tabby's story demonstrates that change occurs through a combination of personal determination, supportive relationships, and the simple yet empowering experience of feeling heard and valued. Her journey over the past 23 years with APSI demonstrates how the right support can help someone not only overcome challenges but also discover their own strength and capacity for caring for others.
