Willie is passionate about many sports, especially baseball. Sadly, a curveball was thrown into his world many years ago. When his mother, Tomasa, passed away, Willie didn’t just lose a loving parent, but also a devoted caregiver.
“Mom would make sure that Willie had many activities that involved exercise because it really made a difference for him mentally, emotionally, and physically,” explained his sister, Cookie.
Tomasa provided an active life filled with bowling, basketball, baseball, and even competitive weightlifting, a sport in which he excelled.
“He loved exercising in aerobics classes each week,” said Willie’s brother, James. “But he also liked being social, especially being around the ladies [laughs]. Willie can charm any woman with his personality, and he loves to make people smile.”
Tomasa’s passing happened just a few years after Willie lost his oldest brother, Efrain, known to the family as “Junior.” Neither Willie nor his surviving siblings were prepared for such heartbreak. Rose House soon gave Willie the care he needed.
The Alison House Group Home in Lake Hiawatha, NJ, was ideal for Willie. It has no stairs, which is vital for his gait issues. And although nobody could replace Tomasa, Willie now receives around-the-clock care and days filled with activities to benefit his body and mind.
At his forever home, Willie enjoys board games, puzzles, and art projects that adorn his bedroom walls and door. He also loves cooking and baking at his day program. James, Cookie, and their sister, Beatrice, visit whenever they can.
Willie no longer lifts weights, but he competes in other sports at Special Olympics New Jersey. He also looks forward to dancing and being the life of the party at Liquid Church’s “Night to Shine” special needs prom each year.
Rose House staff often take Willie to watch live sporting events, including Sussex County Miners baseball games and Independent Superstars of Pro Wrestling matches. They also chaperone him on fun trips, including to Atlantic City and Cape May. Willie’s outgoing personality has made him the perfect candidate to welcome guests at Rose House’s annual golf outing and dine-to-donate events.
Rose House can never fill the void left by loving parents. However, families of adults with developmental disabilities can rest assured that they will live their best lives possible.
