Dorothy is a self-advocate, and when you meet her, this is one of the first things she will tell you. Dorothy will also proudly inform you that she works in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at a local hospital, a job she got through determination and perseverance.
Dorothy says she had to become a self-advocate because she faced discrimination in the workplace. In the past, coworkers and people in authority didn’t see Dorothy for her abilities but chose to focus on her challenges. Rather than being discouraged, Dorothy channeled her feelings into positive action, finding employers who valued her. Eventually, she believed in herself enough to land a position in hospital custodial services, assigned to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. “I didn’t think I was able to work in a hospital, but I found out I can!” Dorothy loves her job, particularly seeing the moms and new babies. She is also a supportive and caring coworker, sharing candy and other treats at every holiday.
Dorothy is also a bubbly, energetic participant in Life Skills events, who keeps things moving along, and everyone laughing. She prioritizes attending Life Skills activities on her days off work and is a joy to have in every activity!