A week ago, several self-advocates and I  were leaving after two productive meetings. Carmelo, Jerry, Alan and I got into the elevator at YAI to head home when something went wrong. The elevator stopped.

I got nervous. “Calm down its OK," Carmello assured me. Jerry and Alan, despite being nervous,added “We’re altogether let’s relax."

Jose, the security person in the lobby, contacted us immediately after I pressed the help buttom. “I’m down here I see you on the camera," he said.

The elevator began moving down peacefully. Thank God! We all were shaken, but I began to relax more on the way home.

Carmello sent me an email,“How are you?"

My reply: “I’m OK, alive!"

Looking back, I must admit it was not a nice place to be. Yet in times of need or trouble, surrounding yourself with the right people always helps you know you will be safe.