Roderick’s Story

Roderick Peters has dreams of attending Kennesaw State University and thanks to BDI and his diligent mother, Jackie, those dreams just might become a reality.

Jackie Lunde, mother of Roderick Peters, is originally from Bogalusa, Louisiana and enjoys cooking, going to the movies and most of all caring for her family. So when she received notice from the Social Security Administration that Roderick was no longer classified as disabled and his benefits would be suspended immediately, her heart sunk.

Lost, confused and worried about her son’s future, Jackie sought help from BDI.

“BDI helped me prepare for Roderick’s SSI hearing,” she said. “The staff made sure that I knew the inner workings of Social Security and how to successfully advocate on my son’s behalf. For example, Roderick tends to score high academically, but he still struggles on the behavior adaptive side. I now know how to effectively communicate these findings.”

Jackie fully assumed the role of disability advocate. It was a tough process but through one-on-one meetings with BDI staff, she was able to take the steps necessary to outline key issues and make her voice heard. “I will always fight for him,” she said. “Regardless of the stress or workload, I’ll keep fighting.”

Because of Jackie’s will to fight, Roderick now receives the SSI benefits he so desperately needed. With Roderick’s SSI benefits reinstated, Jackie is more excited than ever for her son’s bright future.

Roderick is now able to access resources, such as professional counseling, that his family previously couldn’t afford.

“Roderick tries so hard to be the best person ever, but I know he will always need some help,” Jackie explained. “Being awarded the benefits has increased his chances of becoming as independent as possible. That’s all I really want for my son — security and independence.”

BDI helped Jackie see the bright future ahead and for that she will always be extremely grateful.

“I will always fight for him,” she said. “Regardless of the stress or workload, I’ll keep fighting.”

— Jackie, Roderick’s Mom

Now, Michael receives the appropriate attention and his mother’s health has improved somewhat given that she is no longer his primary caretaker.  His mother also has the peace of mind knowing that her son is receiving benefits that meet his current needs and will be well-provided for in the future, particularly now that he has a Special Needs Trust and a long-term home.