Paul Russell
Host Home Provider
15 Years as a DSP
For fifteen years, Paul Russell built a close, trusting bond with the individual he supports, encouraging him daily to speak up about his wants and needs and to stay active and engaged in the community — from music festivals and concerts to his long-term involvement with the Eagles club. Paul’s steady presence helped this individual make his own choices and live a full, connected life. Paul helped the individual secure a grant to improve his bathroom, making it safer and easier for him to use.
That bond had been especially important this past year, as the individual began to show progressing signs of Alzheimer’s, become increasingly confused, and ultimately transitioned into hospice care provided in Paul’s home. Paul learned to enter this individual’s reality while continuing to provide excellent support — no small task. After fourteen years living together, the individual still introduced Paul proudly to visitors, always adding that Paul is “the boss.” Paul continued to problem-solve and adapt his approach daily to meet the individual where he was. The individual passed away peacefully with Paul by his side this summer, and Paul was instrumental in ensuring everyone who was important to the individual was invited to his celebration of life.
Paul is a dedicated advocate, who encouraged the individual to speak up in every meeting and interaction, and worked to ensure the individual’s needs, the hospice agency, and the organization’s needs all stay aligned. He kept the full care team informed of what was happening at every step.
Fifteen years into his career, Paul Russell exemplifies what person-centered care looks like in practice — adaptable, devoted, and rooted in genuine respect for the person he supported, making him a highly deserving nominee for Direct Service Professional of the Year.