* * *

Susan Dekker and Kathy Hysert threw a big party when they had saved the down payment and purchased their home in Grimsby.

Settled comfortably in their matching recliners last week, the two women recalled the excitement of saving for their dream and the day-to-day details and responsibilities of owning a home.

It's a success story, due in no small part to the dedication of Myrna Jameson who is like family in her role as a support worker with Community Living - Grimsby, Lincoln and West Lincoln.

She mentors them with the daily tasks of chores, budgeting and banking. "I kind of feel like it's my other house," said Ms. Jameson who has been a mainstay of support for many years, working with the women long before they bought the home in 2002.

"They work very well together and take great pride in taking care of their house," Ms. Jameson said. "Susan's parents Olga and Henry Dekker do a lot to help and go above and beyond," she said. "Kathy's mother, Olive Hysert, who has passed away, was incredibly proud of Kathy and supportive of the girls purchasing the house."

It's a beautiful town home, immaculate with creative touches throughout. Lawn chairs on the patio are ready for the spring weather and inside, Susan and Kathy are snug and confident in their abilities.

Their cat Sunny decides to grace the living room to check out the visitors. "How do you spell that?" they ask Kathy.

"C-a-t," she replies, breaking into peals of laughter that pretty much sets the lighthearted tone of life in their household.

While Susan keeps the home fires burning, taking on much of the cooking, housework and laundry, Kathy has worked outside at a number of local businesses including Hayes Dana, Parker-Hannifin, Ridgeview Market and Bartlett Packaging. Both women like to volunteer and give back to the community through such organizations as the Grimsby Benevolent Fund. Meanwhile, Ms. Jameson sets them up for success, committed to their comfort and well being.

"Myrna is not only a support worker, she's their extended family," says Community Resources Coordinator Deb Grieve-Knight.

"Her devotion and commitment to their quality of life is evident in everything she does," Ms. Grieve-Knight said. "Community Living is grateful for such devoted staff."

Last week found them working some room in the budget for new clothes for an upcoming dance. "They enjoy their life," says Ms. Jameson. "Community Living is their backbone," she said, recalling the details that led up to the purchase of the home.The two women participated in all the details including visits to the bank and legal offices.

"They were proud as punch when they got the mortgage," Ms. Jameson said. "Like everybody else, they were nervous to take the first step."