To illustrate the principles and conflicts inherent in ensuring the self-determination of individuals with disabilities, this paper discusses the challenges faced by the parents of Shari, an adult with developmental disabilities. Throughout Sheri's 30 years, her parents have sought to create the kind of supports and opportunities that will put Sheri in control of her life on a day-to-day, hour-by-hour basis so that she can live up to her responsibilities as a family member, as a neighbor, and as a citizen. For four years Sheri has rented a home in a quiet Seattle neighborhood. She shares her home with two tenants who exchange a reduction in their rent for assuming responsibility for Sheri's safety overnight. She has expanded and strengthened her circle of support and expanded the number and variety of local places and activities familiar to her. In the past 3 years, she has developed a strong and effective personal assistance team in collaboration with two service providers. This paper explores the limits of self-determination, the influence of parent advocacy, community supports that have enabled Sheri to remain independent, her personalized service design, conflicts that arose between the parents and agency staff, and the resolution of differences. (CR)