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Tony would like you all to know that if you read his previous article, “Tony’s Advice: A Dad’s Insights Toward Finding His Son a Home,” most steps in that article are still very relevant and can lead to a high success rate in finding a good group home.
However, what he didn’t consider is the “5% unknown factor,” which is what this story is about.
 


The Initial Optimism
Five years ago, Tony Mancuso and his wife embarked on an inspiring journey to build a medically fragile home for their son, Adam, in partnership with the Arc of Florida.
Filled with excitement and optimism, they began the construction phase, initiated fundraising efforts, and prepared for Adam’s transition into his new home.
 
Several Unexpected Hurdles
Despite their enthusiasm, the process was fraught with unexpected challenges. Adam was initially classified as a moderate case instead of an extensive level one by the supporting agency, leading to funding complications.
Tony requested a hearing, which the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) eventually provided after three months. The hearing resulted in Adam being reclassified to an extensive level one—a victory that was short-lived.
 
Preparing for the Move
With the reclassification secured, Tony and his wife resumed preparations for Adam’s move. They set up his room, arranged his belongings, and ensured all details were in place for a smooth transition.
They also worked out visiting and visibility rights to remain closely involved in Adam’s care.
Their primary goal was to create a long-term, stable environment where Adam would be supported, regardless of staff changes, focusing on the quality of care rather than just the physical setup of the home.


A Major Setback
Two weeks before Adam was due to move in, they received devastating news: Adam was no longer eligible to enter the group home.
This ruling was due to a specific APD rule (65G-7) that required a registered nurse to administer insulin shots, which Adam needed daily due to his diabetes.
The home could not meet this requirement, leaving Tony with two options: keep Adam at home or institutionalize him in a nursing home.
For Tony, the latter was unthinkable due to the high risks and inadequate care Adam might face there.
 
Advocacy Efforts
Refusing to accept these limitations, Tony took action. He engaged with legislators, including Representative Brackett, to advocate for a change in the rule.
His persistent efforts have led to the consideration of a new statute that would update the existing regulation, potentially allowing trained personal care attendants to administer insulin shots under specific conditions.
 
Please help Tony change the rule. Click here to learn more about Rule 65G-7
and help us reach over 500 signatures. Please sign the petition.
 
 


The Road Ahead
While awaiting the outcome of the legislative efforts, Tony continues to explore alternative group homes for Adam.
He emphasizes the importance of proactive engageme...