Denise lives at YAI’s East Setauket residence.  Music is among her many interests, and she is a huge Paul McCartney fan.

So when she learned that McCartney would perform at Yankee Stadium on July 15, Denise was beside herself with excitement. She and her family asked the staff at the residence if they could help.

The staff wanted more than anything to help Denise see her idol perform. However, they knew a long distance trip to a large venue could present challenges for Denise, who uses a wheelchair and has struggled with health issues over the past year.

“After weighing health and safety concerns versus dignity of risk, the team decided, along with Denise, that she should have the opportunity to attend this concert,” said Louis Bosco, Supervisor of East Setauket. They told Denise and her family that they would do their best to secure tickets in her price range, and arrange for transportation and staff coverage.

Yet challenges remained.

Mindy Risi, Assistant ABSS at the residence, took the lead in locating tickets.  After several days of trying, she almost gave up hope. The residential team was heartbroken. Shortly before they were going to break the sad news to Denise, Mindy received a call from the box office. They found tickets within Denise’s price range! 

“When we told Denise that we finally were able to get the tickets, a huge smile appeared on her face,” said Mindy.

The next challenge was finding a staff person with experience providing oversight at large events to accompany Denise. At a moment’s notice, Stephanie DiClemente, Supervisor at YAI’s Gerald Drive residence and former Asst. Supervisor at East Setauket, graciously volunteered. Throughout the event, she made sure that the concert was everything that Denise had hoped it would be.

 “I am so proud and lucky to be part of such a caring and dedicated team of staff who truly believe in improving the quality of life for our consumers,” said Louis.