David outlined a vision for himself years ago: He wanted to have his own log cabin, get a job with emergency services, own a red pickup truck, and have a bluetick hound dog. Over the past ten years, David has been working hard to accomplish that vision through determination, grit, and faith. 

This past year, David made his log cabin dream a reality - Last week, he spent his first night sleeping in his new house that he, his family, and caring community members built from the ground up. He is the seventh generation to live on this property. SimplyHome recently had a chance to visit David in his very own home - He was proud to show us the sign that hangs next to the front door that reads, “Paw Paw’s Patch” a reminder of the ground beneath the cabin that used to be his great grandfather’s garden.

Talking with David’s mom, Becky Garland, she shared the numerous roadblocks they stumbled upon in the process and both her and David’s unwavering faith throughout. As one might assume, some of the challenges were as a result of COVID and trying to make progress on the build during this time. Although it might have delayed the construction, it did not slow down the dream. David would come to the property in each stage of the development to document the progress and get his hands and mind wrapped around all the work that goes into building a cabin from the ground up. 

Recently, our team at SimplyHome installed David’s SimplyHome System and Smart Home Technology into his new home. When we got to his house, David was still at work, but his mom greeted us. David showed up shortly after and welcomed our request to take us on a tour of his cabin. He proudly showed off his dresser of trophies and Special Olympic ribbons, he shared his book collection, and he showed us his very organized freezer of favorite breakfast and dinner meals. After the grand tour, David took rest in his cozy recliner and told us how much he enjoys watching Netflix. 

He also shared how much his SimplyHome System helps him with his daily routines. “It tells me to wake up, fix my breakfast, take my medicine, and brush my teeth,” said David. His SimplyHome System is an example of how enabling technology can provide a natural support to individuals in completing their daily routines. Additionally, David uses a panic pendant in his bathroom and a Ring doorbell, two safety features that give David and his mom peace of mind. He also feels quite at home already in his new cabin and is excited to welcome his friends and family over. He is surrounded by family on his street, and he has plans to build a footpath across the creek to his cousin’s house. 

David’s vision does not stop here - His mom shared that David still wants to work on his driving skills to one day be able to drive a red pickup truck. David’s Vision is a shared vision - through his nonprofit, he hopes to not only inspire others in their vision for an independent, self-determined future but also provide safe, debt-free housing for persons with intellectual disabilities. 

To learn more about David’s Vision and opportunities to participate in fundraising efforts, check out the David’s Vision Facebook Page.