Jon-Jon’s parents were overjoyed when he was born. He was the little baby boy they’d waited so long for.

But when he was only 2 days old, Jon-Jon suffered a devastating stroke which left him to struggle with Cerebral Palsy, severe cognitive limitations and blindness for the rest of his life.

Doctors told his parents that he wouldn’t live to his first birthday.

His mother and father were heartbroken and deeply worried. But they loved Jon-Jon dearly and resolved to help him live his life to the fullest, one day at a time.

Jon-Jon’s journey hasn’t been easy. He can’t speak or use his hands to point or sign. He’s endured multiple surgeries on his legs. And he’s survived life-threatening illnesses more than once.

When Jon-Jon’s mother, Sheila, brought him to Hope 13 years ago, the staff asked about her wishes for his future. She simply said, “I just want him to wake up happy and laughing every day of his life.”

Today, Jon-Jon is a happy, thriving young man. He’s learning and loving life every day, through state of the art services at The Hope Institute.

Because Jon-Jon’s physical challenges are significant, he lives in a Hope campus home with access to 24 hour medical and personal care. “Hope is there for Jon-Jon every single minute of the day in ways I can’t be,” Sheila explains. “I know they love him as much as I do. I have absolutely no doubt that Hope’s staff is taking care of his needs 110 percent.”

The Hope Institute has been providing hopeful futures for children with disabilities, like Jon-Jon, since 1957. Our customized, one on one education and state-of-the-art medical and therapeutic technologies allow each of our children to learn, grow and love life to the best of their abilities.

Jon-Jon’s story is just one of many Stories of Hope made possible by the generous support of caring friends like you.

Thank you for opening your heart to the special needs of children like Jon-Jon and all the boys and girls at The Hope Institute.

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