Ryan’s parents were overjoyed when their precious, bright-eyed, baby boy was born.

But soon after his birth, they learned that something was very wrong. Ryan’s brain had suddenly stopped growing. They sought opinions from neurologists across the country. But none of them could determine what happened.

Ryan never developed the ability to speak. And his cerebral palsy makes walking so difficult, he’s had to use a wheelchair for most of his life.

His mother, Julie, explains, “Despite Ryan’s tremendous challenges, my husband and I were resolved to do the best we could for him. We coordinated therapists, doctors and teachers to help him develop to the best of his ability.”

But as Ryan got older, his complicated educational needs exhausted his local school’s resources. And, as he grew bigger, his parents worried more about Ryan’s physical safety. They had to be with him all the time for his own protection.

Julie continues, “The love we have for our son led us to a hard realization. We desperately wanted to keep him with us at home, but we knew Ryan needed more help than our family and community could provide.”

“We wanted Ryan to be able to live and learn in supportive care specifically designed to help him explore and celebrate his own, unique potential,” Julie adds.

“We are so grateful that we found that loving care for our son at The Hope Institute.”

Today, Hope’s occupational and speech therapists are helping Ryan develop communication and self-care skills. In physical therapy, he’s walking with standby assistance. Every day, he’s interacting with classmates and participating in fun educational activities. He’s becoming an independent and self-assured young man.

Julie confides, “Placing Ryan at Hope was a tough decision for our family, especially for me, as a mom. But I know he’s getting the finest education from experts who are specifically trained to help children with his type of challenges. And that gives me tremendous peace of mind.”

“Like a lot of mothers, my only wish for my son is that he be happy and that his abilities and opportunities grow throughout life. And that’s exactly what’s happening for Ryan at Hope. Hope has allowed me to start dreaming wonderful things for my son again.”

Ryan’s hopeful future is due, in large part, to the ongoing and generous support of caring friends like you.

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

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