My name is Monique Casbeer. My dad was in the military and we frequently moved around the United States. He retired when I was fourteen years old and Montana became my permanent home. I have two Bachelor degrees in Computer Science and Applied Math, and two Master degrees in Business Administration and Computer Science. My primary diagnosis is Asperger’s syndrome. As an adult, I have become interested and involved in many aspects of service delivery for people with disabilities. I participate on several boards of directors.
I started receiving homecare services as an adult. After my mother passed away, my symptoms became worse. I eventually went to a mental health center to receive help from a physician. My case manager recommended personal care assistant services. I like the flexibility of working directly with my PCA to accommodate my schedule. Self-direction allows the client to select their caregivers and participate in setting priorities.
I play the organ and attend exercise classes at gyms. I have also participated in many different dance classes, including; ballroom, tango, Latin, swing, and belly dancing. Dancing has improved my social skills and helped me with proximity of personal space, which are two issues that affect individuals with Asperger’s.
Monique – Peer Network Member
Missoula, Montana
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