My day at the statehouse

Today I went to the statehouse with two staff and 3 members from the Point After Club. I was asked yesterday to speak on a panel with the head of the MCC. I was nervous because I didn't realize I'd be speaking in front of the ways and means committee. I spoke on how the club has changed my life in the almost 2 years I've been a member. I'm a young adult and I participate in the young adult program at the Point After Club. We do hang out nights with other clubhouses. Recently we've connected with the TIP program and I've learned about using coupons and budgeting while shoppng.

As all or at least most of you know by now I connect more with the adults in my life. I still do. I think that's something that I'll always do. But gradually I've gotten to know people my own age. Yesterday I gave a tour to a young adult. It was fun showing him the place that has changed my life so dramatically. I received compliments from Reva who is the head of the MCC. She is really nice and does a lot of hard work to support all the clubs in MA. I realize I'm repeating myself but I have to give a shout-out to the director and the Assistant director and all of the incredible staff members for changing my life. They are a second family to me, they are my heroes, I admire them for what they do. They work hard everyday for all of the club members.

I owe so much to the staff of the Point After Club, they have supported me through my hard times and trust me as of late I've had a lot of them. I have my good days though. They all know how to put a smile on my face. Without the club I'd be isolating in my room, I would be on facebook 24/7. I already isolate during the weekends I go to the club every weekday but not on Saturday. But I'm hoping with some support that I can go on Saturday's and hopefully that will lessen my isolation. I really loved being at the statehouse today and testifying before the ways and means committee. Yes I was very nervous but it was such an honor to be able to speak. I must admit I had a lump in my throat the entire time I spoke. I really think without the club being a part of my life I wouldn't have had the courage to speak out in front of the different reps. Even the members notice how much I've changed.

It is hard for me to realize my own changes, but I've slowly come to realize that I have indeed come out of my shell, I am able to talk about my illness with my peers. Those are two major things I thought I would never be able to do without support. I will be ending this post for now but if I remember anything else I will certainly add to it. I hope everybody reads and comments. Thanks for your time. :)