Neighbors

Seaford neighbors are pioneers

Pair working to create home to support individuals with disabilities

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When Karen Siler’s neighbor was in financial trouble, facing possible foreclosure, Siler came up with an interesting solution that could benefit both families.

Siler thought of having her brother, Michael Russell, who had Down syndrome, and her son, Ryan, 23, who is autistic, move in with Laura Cook, who lives two houses away on Kenora Place in Seaford, and paying her enough to keep the house. The two men would be able to gain a sense of independence, and Cook — who used to work with the Department of Mental Retardation in Connecticut, now known as the Department of Developmental Services, and has experience helping people with disabilities — would have the financial assistance she needed to keep a house that had been in her family for generations.

“Michael always wanted to be independent,” said Siler, who was unhappy with the care he was receiving at a group home. “He never wanted to be in a group home.”

Russell died in March from leukemia at 47 and unfortunately, Siler said, he will not be able to benefit from the plan. Instead, once some renovations take place at Cook’s home, Ryan will move in, and there will be spots for two other people with disabilities.

“It’s not going to be a group home,” Siler said, explaining that the home will be designed for those with disabilities who need some support, but are capable of living mostly independent lives. The residents will have their own staff during the day, while Cook will be responsible for their well being at night. Siler said that this is a unique idea, and one that she hopes can become a model.

Cook said she is happy to open her home to Ryan Siler and two others. “I think this is an amazing idea,” she said. “I think it will benefit many families for years to come.”

Cook’s house was originally purchased by her grandparents. Her aunt and uncle then moved in and raised two sons. Cook took over the house after getting married in 1994. She fell on hard times after her husband left and she battled colon cancer. But now she is excited about making a fresh start, especially because she will get to keep a home that has been in her family for more than 60 years.

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