“My name is Lisa and I’d like to share with you the incredible journey I’m having with my son David.
He was tiny at birth, less than 3 lbs., with transparent skin, several medical issues, no interest in eating, and very little chance of survival. All I saw though was a gorgeous, red-haired baby that I immediately fell in love with.
David made it through his first three months, but the prognosis was poor:
- He will never sit up unassisted;
- he will never walk, he will never talk;
- he will never have any understanding of anything;
- he will NEVER NEVER NEVER
I began to hate NEVER. When I looked at my beautiful baby boy, I thought “WHY NOT?” David and I began working hard and despite the predictions of therapists and educators, he made progress:
- Never sit up unassisted? Check – doing that
- Never walk? Check – doing that
- Never talk? Check – doing that
In the summer of 2009, we found ourselves in a crisis situation – medical problems that required hospitalization and behavioral issues that were more and more concerning with each passing day. In October we connected with the Mae Street program at Living Opportunities, where David lives today. The transition has not been easy for me, but Serrae and her staff have helped me realize that what David needs and now has an opportunity to continue his “why not” journey, achieving even more skills and independence.
- Never ride a bike? Check – doing that – on the BMX track!
- Never finish school? Check – he graduates transition in June!
- Never have a paying job? Almost check – we’re working on it!
Living Opportunities is a place where people are looking for potential and believe that David can do whatever he wants. I am looking forward to continuing our “Why Not” journey with them at our side!”
