Meet Ralph Simmons...
Ralph is a friendly, outgoing 48 year old man with Down syndrome. He was recently a presenter at DSAOC's 2nd Annual Conference and spoke to a group of fellow self-advocates about working and living on his own. He also spoke about his social activities, which include bowling every Saturday and hanging out with his brother and friends.
Ralph is currently working at Pavilions Market as a bagger. When asked what the best thing about working at Pavilions is Ralph said, "all the new friends I make and just being around people".
In October, Ralph moved into his very own one bedroom apartment after living in a Board & Care group home for 23 years. With some help from staff he cooks, cleans, pays bills, and cares for his fish, Dr. Pepper. He loves to cook soft tacos and chicken quesadillas.
When Ralph isn't working he is watching or playing sports, dancing, or staying up late watching TV. When asked how it feels to be on his own he answered happily with, "freedom at last"!
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