Teresa’s ADEN Success Story

Teresa’s path to employment and financial independence reflects resilience and perseverance. A serious spinal cord injury left her paralyzed from the neck down, and she was told she would never walk again. Still, Teresa kept working on her recovery, rebuilding her confidence, and finding new purpose.

Teresa’s recovery went beyond the physical. She worked to regain her confidence, manage depression, rebuild trust, and reconnect with her faith. During this difficult period, she also lost her mother and her 13-year-old son within months. Even with these losses, Teresa kept moving forward and focused on her abilities rather than her limitations.

Returning to meaningful work became a key step in Teresa’s journey to independence. After many years away from the workforce and receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), she wondered if she could work again and regain financial independence. The Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work program gave her a chance to explore that path.

With help from the American Dream Employment Network (ADEN), Teresa connected with StepToWork LLC, an ADEN Member, and Patricia “Trish” Reonas, who supported her in reaching her job goals. Teresa had years of administrative experience, but after being away from work for a while, she needed to update her skills and get recent experience. She and Trish worked together to improve her resume, find jobs that fit her skills, and explore ways to grow her career.

Teresa started with an entry-level job as an Affordable Connectivity Plan/Lifeline Reviewer to gain recent experience and rebuild her skills. The job was challenging, but she stayed determined. She continued working with Trish to update her resume and search for jobs that matched her background. Over time, she moved through several roles, including temporary jobs that turned into longer-term positions. Now, Teresa has a new job with better pay and is still working toward her career and financial goals.

Understanding her benefits and work incentives was also an important part of Teresa’s transition. Learning about Social Security work incentives helped her try working while keeping important benefits and supports. When she needed SSDI cash benefits again for a short time, these work incentives provided extra security while she kept looking for work. Today, Teresa has health coverage through her employer and still has Medicare Part A.

For Teresa, the support she received throughout the process was about more than finding a job.

“The journey back into the workforce was not always easy,” Teresa shared. She is grateful for the support, resources, and encouragement she received from ADEN and StepToWork LLC. She especially credits Trish’s guidance, patience, and ongoing encouragement for helping her reach her job and financial goals.

On August 1, 2026, Teresa officially graduated from the Ticket to Work program—a milestone that represents much more to her than simply returning to work. It reflects perseverance, growth, independence, and a new chapter in her life.

Teresa’s story shows what is possible when determination meets the right resources and support. After years away from work, she has reduced her need for Social Security cash benefits, rebuilt her career, and continues working toward greater financial stability and higher earning potential.

Most importantly, Teresa hopes her story can encourage someone else who is unsure about returning to work. Her journey reminds us that disability does not take away a person’s abilities, goals, education, talents, value, or potential. Progress can include setbacks and may need support, but each step forward can build more confidence and independence.

“If sharing my experience can encourage even one person who may be facing challenges, rebuilding their life, or wondering whether returning to work is possible, I would be more than happy to participate,” Teresa shared. She hopes others will see that determination, the right support, and people who believe in you can make goals that once seemed out of reach possible.

If you are between the ages of 18-64 and receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the Ticket to Work program could help you achieve your employment and financial goals. Visit the American Dream Employment Network (ADEN), a division of National Disability Institute (NDI), to learn more about employment support through the Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work program.

Visit the ADEN website to learn more about how the Ticket to Work program can help you on your path to employment and financial independence. Take the next step today and explore the support available to help you move toward your goals.