Brianna’s Story

Peace of Mind, Redefined

By 7017444915 • March 26, 2026
There is a certain kind of peace that comes when you know someone you love is safe. One mother, Jeanelle Stokes, shared that before Smart Living, there was always a quiet tension. Even when things were going well, that lingering question remained: What if something happens when no one is right there? At Hope Haven, we believe safety and independence should not compete with one another. They should work together. That belief is what led to the development of Smart Living. Smart Living blends personalized technology, remote support, and in-person care to help individuals live more independently while maintaining a dependable safety net. From our Remote Support Center in Spirit Lake, trained professionals are available 24 hours a day, ready to respond when assistance is needed. Jeanelle put it simply: “I don’t feel like I have to hover anymore. I know someone is there if he needs help.” Homes are equipped with thoughtfully selected tools such as motion sensors, wearable devices, secure video connections, and interactive reminders, all tailored to the member’s individual needs. These tools aren’t designed to replace care, but to enhance it. For Jeanelle’s son Jerrod, constant staff presence was increasing his anxiety. When part of his support transitioned to remote monitoring, there was a noticeable change. Within days, he began reaching out just to say, “Hi, I’m okay.” With that change, he had more space while still knowing support was just a call away. As Scripture reminds us, “The Lord himself watches over you.” - Psalm 121:5 Smart Living reflects that same premise of watchful care, encouraging independence while still keeping support within reach. As this initiative expands, more individuals will have the opportunity to live confidently in their own homes, and more families will experience the peace that comes from knowing help is always near. Your generosity makes that growth possible. It allows us to expand Smart Living into more homes, strengthen our Remote Support Center, and ensure that independence is never separated from safety. If you wish to contribute, please CLICK HERE to donate today. Thank you for your continued support, prayers, and partnership in Hope Haven’s mission.
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12-year-old Brianna loves coloring painting and music. In the summertime her favorite activity is – without question – playing in the water. She’s even been dubbed ‘the little mermaid’ because of her beloved pastime. Another part of Brianna’s life is her Angelman Syndrome diagnosis. Angelman Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system.

 

Brianna was diagnosed at the age of one and was raised at home by her mother Kandice. Around Brianna’s 7 th  Birthday Kandice met with Faith Hope & Charity (FHC – A division of Hope Haven Inc.) in Storm Lake IA to learn more about respite services for Brianna. However when staff heard of the comprehensive care and close watch that Brianna required at home they also provided Kandice with information about residential services available in an intermediate care facility for the intellectually disabled (ICF/ID).  

 

At the time Kandice was a single mom raising three young girls all on her own. When she learned that the ICF/ID at FHC was equipped to provide 24 hour medical services physical and occupational therapy speech and language therapy  among many other services  Kandice evaluated this new option with more thought. Additionally she took into consideration the “home away from home feel” of FHC and the growing level of care and attention her other two young daughters also required. 

 

Still Kandice grappled with the choice. “It was an extremely hard decision the hardest I’ve ever made ” she remarks. After careful deliberation she decided to move forward with the ICF/ID option for Brianna “I know my child  who needs an extreme amount of care – more than just one person can provide – is getting the constant care and monitoring she needs to thrive.”  

 

Brianna made the move to FHC in 2014 and has experienced significant growth over the past five years. With help from staff  she has identified methods and activities that are therapeutic and beneficial for her like sensory engagement. Brianna is non-verbal so she has also learned to use a communication board to share her thoughts. She’s continually working towards increased independence and more social activity.   

 

When she’s not at FHC she delights in time spent with mom dad two sisters and a brother. Her family comments on her playful spirit sense of humor and sweet demeanor. It’s also noted that when she’s away for long periods of time Brianna is eager to return to FHC. “She has made huge progress and now considers FHC her home ” affirms Kandice. 

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