Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) partner with people with disabilities to support their independence, honor their choices, and encourage community participation. It’s rewarding work for anyone who believes in the potential of others. 

That purpose takes on new meaning when the person you support is someone you know and love. 

For the past five years, Tammy has worked as the DSP for her brother-in-law, Jack. In that time, she has become his advocate, supporter, and friend, showing up each day to help him live life on his own terms. 

Family ties aren’t the only thing that guides Tammy’s work. She believes everyone deserves the opportunity to live the life they choose. It’s a value shaped by her own background, experiences, and character. 

A Legacy of Advocacy  

Tammy credits her grandmother, a career lawyer who retired as a federal judge, as her greatest influence. Her grandmother was one of only two women in a law school class of more than 200 graduates. She was a trailblazer who forged her own path, broke barriers, and showed others what women were truly capable of achieving in her time. 

“My grandmother taught me lessons that have stayed with me throughout my life,” said Tammy. “She instilled in me the importance of knowing my rights as a citizen, speaking up for myself, and understanding when to take a stand.” 

Alongside her public service, Tammy’s grandmother was committed to making a difference in Anne Arundel County, especially through advancing adult literacy. She believed that the ability to read was the foundation of self-advocacy and independence. 

Inspired by her grandmother’s example, Tammy had the confidence and motivation to chart her own course. Her grandmother showed her what it meant to live an impactful life—an influence that shaped not just Tammy’s values, but her career. 

Finding Her Way Back 

Tammy began her career as a DSP in the early 2000s, providing one-to-one support to a young woman for nearly five years. The work was meaningful, but disability services looked much different then. 

“Things weren’t quite like they are today,” Tammy recalled. “Back then, DSPs didn’t receive much appreciation or support. Nearly twenty-five years later, it’s a much more empowering experience.” 

After that first chapter as a DSP, Tammy transitioned into dementia care, using her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credentials to support people entering a new phase of life.  

In 2021, Jack’s mother reached out to ask if Tammy would consider returning as a DSP to support Jack as he came of age and entered adulthood. Tammy was hesitant at first. But after interviewing with Fello, she immediately noticed how much had changed. 

“It was clear the field had evolved a great deal over the last two decades,” said Tammy. “DSPs now have much more support and stronger policies to ensure the best possible outcomes for people with disabilities.” 

Ultimately, what mattered most to Tammy was the opportunity to support a family member she knew was full of potential and ready to live the life he wanted for himself. It was a chance to make a lasting, positive impact on Jack’s life, and one she knew she had to take. 

Everyday Empowerment 

After five years with Fello, Tammy says supporting Jack to live his best life is one of the most meaningful parts of her work.  

Tammy and Jack have a routine built around his interests. They often spend time at Annapolis Mall, visiting the fountain, stopping by Paws at the Mall to spend time with the animals, or strolling through the food court. Whenever Fello at The Mall hosts an event, you can count on them to be there.  

Jack is a big fan of live music, especially calypso and reggae—anything with a good beat. They often attend local concerts, but you might also find Jack at the library, enjoying a quiet afternoon. His choice depends on how he feels.  

Jack also understands that adulthood is about more than leisure. Shopping for groceries is one responsibility he’s happy to take on himself.  

“Jack knows the process,” said Tammy. “We go to the grocery store, and he’s the one deciding what’s for lunch. It could be tuna salad or egg salad, depending on his mood. He pays and completes the transaction. He’s in charge the entire time.”  

Tammy sees herself as a supportive partner in these moments, giving Jack the space not only to make his own decisions, but to follow through with them. She’s there when Jack needs her, but only when he decides he does. That’s what independence looks like. 

The Why Behind the Work 

Jack’s room is decorated with motivational quotes that remind him he’s in charge of his life—able to make his own decisions and achieve his own goals. 

His favorite one says, “Don’t diss my ability.” The playful phrase always makes Jack laugh, but it also serves as a powerful reminder that he can accomplish anything that matters to him. 

What makes these quotes especially meaningful is that most of them come from Tammy, a reflection of a relationship rooted in empowerment, encouragement, and mutual support. 

For Tammy, being a DSP is more than wanting to help. It’s about building genuine trust with the people you support. That trust can take days or even years to develop, but its foundation is always the same: showing up consistently, prepared, and ready to advocate. 

The work is about supporting people with disabilities to make their own choices and live the lives they want. Tammy believes it’s not just the right thing to do—it’s a fundamental human right. 

“I’ve always worked jobs where I served one facet of the community or another, and to me, working to improve the human condition and experience is everything,” said Tammy. “That’s what a DSP does every day.” 

Tammy’s story is a reminder of what’s possible when a DSP brings not just skill, but genuine belief in the person they support. It’s a partnership that changes Jack’s life every day and, in its own way, moves the entire community closer to inclusion.