Judy and Tom celebrate life together

Judy and Tom first met when they bumped into each other under a table. That was about 30 years ago, when they were both working at a "sheltered workshop" at the agency that was to become MCFI. They were counting red and black checkers and somehow the checkers had spilled onto the floor.

As they picked up the strays, "All of a sudden our eyes met," Tom recalled, "and that was it." This year, the Pingers celebrated their 33rd wedding anniversary by renewing their vows.

Pat Arata, senior residential case manager in MCFI's Community Living program, has been working with both Tom and Judy for more than 10 years, most recently through the Family Care program. Both Judy and Tom had polio when they were young, Pat said, and both are living with developmental and physical disabilities.

Pat said she enjoys "just seeing how much they really do love each other and appreciate each other. They work together so well."

Sometimes, Pat said, it takes a long time for clients to master the skills needed to live on their own. Over the years, Judy and Tom have learned the tasks necessary to live in their cozy apartment in Milwaukee.

"I do the cleaning," Judy said, "and Tom does the laundry."

Pat, along with MCFI Community Living Specialist Penny Fishler, have encouraged the the couple to become more involved in the community. Tom and Judy are active in their church, and their two pastors have become good friends and allies.

Penny helps Judy and Tom manage their budget and reminds them to eat healthy meals, often taking Judy grocery shopping and to the bank. Penny created a chart with simple illustrations to help Judy and Tom remember the meals they've planned for the week. Judy pointed to a picture of a fish on a chart posted on her refrigerator - tuna salad was on the menu for the day.

"We both cook from scratch," Judy noted.

Pat and Penny also helps them to communicate with the Social Security Administration and other service providers. Every six months, Pat and Penny help Judy and Tom take a closer look at their current situation and set new goals.

Judy, who worked in the UWM cafeteria for 19 years, is now being considered for a job with MCFI Food Services, while Tom is enjoying his retirement - especially when he can convince Judy to take a break and join him out on the dance floor.

Penny and Pat are counted among the couple's closest friends. "They're not just friends," Judy said. "They're a gift."