Meet Cody
Cody has been supported by Community Living Oakville since the fall of 2011. Symbolically arriving during a season of change, he grew and flourished to reveal his determined character – keen insight and powerful ability for logical thinking. His natural insight into human nature, often shows in his humour. He is perhaps our biggest critic and a formidable energy when being persuasive. His story is one of finding suitable outlet to share his personality – strengths and skills.
Speaking out about concerns is essential to this committed advocate who joined the Raise Your Voice council where his desire to communicate need for progressive service for peers, discovered a suitable outlet. He gives voice to the frustrations that come with living with a developmental disability and societal attitudes which are at times somewhat primitive. We should listen to Cody – at times there is strong value to his observations.
Keen insight and razor reasoning are balanced and tempered by thoughtfulness, gentleness and compassion. Mother’s day was made memorable when he purchased roses for all support staff working on May 13th 2018. He amazed people with notable action that is genuinely touching and sincere, showing appreciation for life and those around him. Family is highly important to Cody.
These days you may see Cody working at the busy front desk at the main office – actively fielding multiple calls and politely directing visitors to the person they are coming to meet. His quiet – gentle and unassuming demeanour and his soft-spoken manner makes visitors feel welcome in the organization.
At home cooking is his passion – when he sets his mind to a meal his culinary creativity shines. His dinners include words like ‘pesto’ and ‘reduction’ that translates a meal into a gourmet experience for everyone. He will advocate for menu choices that push the envelope of variety – creating the sense and contentment of a home environment. He gets as excited about the addition of kitchen appliances and utensils as Martha Stewart or Jamie Oliver.
Technology is important – from the setup in his bedroom to access the latest movies to his personal cell phone, Cody characterizes his home – like he did when he introduced everyone to and cared for his pet Guinea pig – Waffles. His innate need to care for and protect once again met with a suitable outlet.
On a more personal focus – Cody and his girlfriend are often out and about exploring local restaurants, sharing moments and creating memories by enjoying many opportunities their wonderful hometown, Oakville, offers. One has to imagine a person willing to purchase roses to acknowledge importance of being a mother, must be a good partner and friend. What is most remarkable is that Cody has experienced incredible challenges as a young person but with resilient determination independently sculpted and defined himself as the person we know and respect today – someone who not only receives service but also contributes to the evolution of our service.
