A Daily Struggle in an Inaccessible Home
For over a decade, Katrina Hyche lived in a wheelchair after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome — a rare condition that left her paralyzed. Once a yoga instructor, she now maintains her strength through adapted exercises.
However, Katrina’s home was not designed for someone with limited mobility. In the bathroom, showering became dangerous. With only the walls to hold onto for balance, Katrina risked falling every day.
Her mother, Deborah, now 70, is acting as her caregiver while also looking after her grandson Noah, who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy and has never walked. The family knew changes were needed, but financial limitations kept them from making the necessary home modifications — until a small inheritance offered them a path forward.
TruBlue Steps in with Compassion and Expertise
When Katrina and Deborah were introduced to TruBlue Home Service Ally of Birmingham, it was originally for help clearing out the home of Deborah’s late mother. But what began as a simple service turned into a transformative partnership. Understanding the family’s unique situation, TruBlue offered a comprehensive, compassionate approach to renovation — focusing not just on function, but also on dignity and independence.
TruBlue designed a fully wheelchair-accessible bathroom featuring a roll-in shower, adjustable vanities, and grab bars placed for maximum safety. The layout allowed Katrina to move freely and independently — even on the hard days when Deborah is not home.
Long-term solutions that genuinely improve lives
The transformation goes beyond tiles and fixtures. For Katrina, it means safety and control over her daily routine. She no longer faces the fear of falling with every shower. For Deborah, it means relief — less physical strain and a lighter emotional burden. The remodeled space also supported Deborah’s needs, with thoughtful features that improved her daily comfort.
The remodel helped to restore balance in a household filled with responsibility. For a family that includes multiple generations under one roof, every improvement made a powerful difference.
Ongoing Support for a Family Built on LOVE
The bathroom remodel is only the beginning. TruBlue continues to work with the Hyche family on future projects, including an accessible kitchen and creating space for a new service dog to assist Katrina. The Hyches’ home is now a safer, more supportive environment — not just for Katrina, but for every member of their tight-knit household.
Why Accessible HOME Renovations Matter
The Hyche family’s journey is a powerful example of what accessible home renovations can achieve: more independence, dignity, and empowerment.
If you or a loved one is facing similar challenges, know that there is help. TruBlue is ready to bring a personalized approach, cost-effective solutions, and deep commitment to each and every client’s well-being. TruBlue is about more than just changing homes, it’s about changing lives.
