[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 166 (Monday, October 21, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1315]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING WESTERN REGION DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR 
                            KARRIE SCHINDLER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUY RESCHENTHALER

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 21, 2019

  Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Karrie 
Schindler who has been selected as the Pennsylvania Advocacy and 
Resources for Autism and Intellectual Disability's Western Region 
Direct Support Professional of the Year. Ms. Schindler has dedicated 
her life to lifting-up and improving the lives of individuals in our 
community with autism. She is a beacon of compassion and dedicates her 
time to providing in-home care to those with disabilities so they can 
lead self-directed lives in their communities.
  Since 2013, Ms. Schindler has provided Home and Community 
Habilitation care to a special woman named Maryann. Throughout the 
years, Ms. Schindler has helped Maryann live a full and active life and 
engage with her community.
  Sadly, in December 2018, Maryann's mother unexpectedly passed away. 
Following this tragedy, Maryann was forced to move to Florida, away 
from the community she loved and the support system she had fostered 
throughout her years with Ms. Schindler.
  Late one January night, Ms. Schindler received a call from Maryann 
that she was at the airport and didn't know what to do. Without 
hesitation, Ms. Schindler sprang into action. She drove straight to the 
Pittsburgh airport to pick Maryann up. It wasn't long before Ms. 
Schindler and her family made the decision to become Life Sharing 
providers and welcome Maryann into their home permanently.
  Madam Speaker, Karrie Schindler has demonstrated extraordinary 
selflessness and compassion in her work with Maryann. Please join me in 
congratulating Ms. Schindler on her selection as the Pennsylvania 
Advocacy and Resources for Autism and Intellectual Disability's Western 
Region Direct Support Professional of the Year.

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