Anna is a 7-year-old girl living and thriving with Down syndrome. We received Anna's diagnosis at her birth and were told of all the things Anna would never do. She has been in therapy for speech challenges, physical challenges, and daily living challenges since she was three months old. Anna works very hard to overcome her challenges. As a person living with DS, she also has severe hypotonia (low muscle tone), and speaking, walking, jumping, and putting on her clothes take twice the effort as a typical child.

Michela is an 8-year-old girl, and she is nonverbal. She has autism and lots of sensory processing issues. She loves music, swimming, jumping, or anything that will help her regulate in that sensory processing area.

Londyn is seven years old and was diagnosed with Down Syndrome at birth.  She is currently a 2nd grader living in Stockbridge.

Our daughter Fatima has spina bifida and hydrocephalus. She is a friendly smiling girl with an immensely big heart. She is the one who tells all of us in our house not to give up and keep fighting. That if we fall, we get up. There are no limits. She is our strength. 

Our son Nelson Camacho is 19 years young and has spina bifida and hydrocephalus. He is a young man full of great joy with a lot of desire to get ahead. Although the doctors in PR did not give him much chance of living, heaven and God had the last word and a purpose with him. Today he continues to show the world that you can, and there are no limits.

Tess was a healthy child until Sunday, July 11th. She woke up with a fever and could not walk. She was paralyzed from the waist down. 

After five days, we finally received a diagnosis of Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein (MOG). This is an idiopathic, inflammatory, demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. It is similar to MS. 

Tess spent five weeks in Scottish Rite learning to walk again and learning to re-control her bladder. She is home now but has a long road ahead. We do monthly treatments, Multiple doctors appointments, OT & PT. This is something she will deal with for the rest of her life. 

I am a widow doing my best to be here for my children and to be there every step of the way with this sweet girl. 

Our son Slade is a 12-year-old boy who happens to have Down Syndrome. He’s hilarious at times and quite grumpy at times! He’s also as stubborn as the Specialists said he would be. But much of the time, he’s one of the most loving people anyone would be privileged to know. Slade’s love of music has us dancing and singing through almost every event in our life. I am continually fascinated by him!

Travis has Downs Syndrome.  He has attended Kindergarten through 12th grade in Cherokee County Schools in the RRHS zone.  He is a joy to be around and never meets a stranger.  Travis goes out of his way to let you know you look good, you're pretty, or you have on cool shoes!  

He knows how to turn a frown upside down on himself as well as anyone around with his amazing smile and hugs!  Travis has been the RRHS basketball boys Varsity manager for three years! He is the bright light glimmering through the clouds even on dreary days.

Kylie has Angelman Syndrome. She is nonverbal and uses a wheelchair to get around. She loves everyone and loves people! She’s a very happy girl that enjoys going places and interacting with others.

Lukas attends Walton High School and has Down Syndrome.  He makes everyone's day with his infectious laugh, bright smile, and fun personality! He loves sports and is the best dancer!

Dallas was born with torticollis which was untreated throughout infancy. He suffered severe developmental delays due to neglect and other infant trauma. In May of 2020, Dallas began therapies, including speech, OT, and ABA. In July of 2022, Dallas was diagnosed with Autism level 2, ADHD, and trauma. 

Dallas has grown and developed so much and has already come so far! He is in a general education class with IEP support, attends church, and plays baseball. In the winter, he will begin basketball as well. Despite his beginning, Dallas is a sweet, loving, caring, compassionate child who loves to help and be involved. His smile is amazing, and his laugh is infectious. He is a true blessing.

Tony has cerebral palsy, but he has overcome so much in life, including epilepsy. He now works his first job at Crumbl Cookie and does a fantastic job there. He plays Xbox better when he’s not working, but he plays one-handed and does better than most kids or adults with two hands.

Jacob is a sweet boy who is a pleasure to be around every day.  Even though he does not talk a lot, he is able to communicate his joy and friendliness with his classmates.

Jessie was born with Down Syndrome and had a lot of medical issues when she was born. At age 9, we found out Jessie has autism too. But Jessie is not a diagnosis, she is a sweet, funny, and beautiful human being who enriches our life daily and makes everyone around her a better person. 

Brantley has Cerebral Palsy. He was diagnosed when he was 14 months old and cannot walk right now. He goes to lots of therapies and doctors. He had hip surgery a year ago. He may walk one day but all according to God's plan. He is super smart and ahead of his age group. The only thing holding him back is physical things.

Sydney has Down Syndrome. She is a warrior and has overcome every obstacle life has thrown her way. She has had 11 surgeries and continues to preserve. She is joy to all who have meet her and she has a smile that lights up the room. 

Tommy has low-functioning autism. He is nonverbal and has a sensory processing disorder. He loves being outdoors and any place that is loud, bright, and exciting. He plays basketball with the Special Olympics and took home the gold medal last year for ages 9 to 12 He has an amazing shot and wows everyone that watches him. Our hopes for him are that he will one day be able to play on a traveling team, so he can see the world and show off his talents!!

Felix has autism. He loves soccer and plays with Atlanta United’s Special Olympics Unified team. He is kind to everyone and full of energy. 

Mason is a resilient 5-year-old born with Down Syndrome. Since he was born, he’s faced a series of challenges that he doesn’t let stop him & he surely doesn’t let his diagnosis get in his way.

Tristan is a very happy little boy who has Thresh syndrome. He's legally blind and only has one ear. He wears a Baja to help him hear.  Tristan has overcome a lot of obstacles.  He loves to be outdoors and loves cheering on any and everybody when they're competing.  

Markayla is one of the kindest and most intelligent young ladies you will ever meet. She loves to sit with her friends at lunch and dance during PE. Her favorite things to do during her free time is watch movies and listen to music. 

A bright young lady with some learning disabilities.

Trey is an energetic boy. He has almost daily seizures, but they don't let life stop him. He loves feeling tines and admiring the sunlight.

Nicholas is an amazing boy on the Autism Spectrum. Nicholas is our baby; he is the youngest of 4 and has 3 amazing siblings. Nicholas was officially diagnosed with Autism on October 2019 by Marcus Autism Center. He is adventurous, fearless, loving, compassionate, and just a really special little guy. There are no words to describe his attitude toward life.  Nicholas loves to draw, color, paint, listen to music, jump, run, and eat (LOL). 

Carson has a global developmental delay attached to an extra chromosome. He is Autistic and has low vision. He has nystagmus and Retinal dystrophy. He also has a seizure disorder and severe sleep apnea. Carson is a wild, barefoot, bouncy curls boy. He loves music, pizza, taking lots of baths, and playing baseball on his adaptive team! Carson marches to the beat of his drum and we are so blessed to be able to witness it!

Ronan is a fun, energetic kid who was diagnosed with Autism. Even with his diagnosis, he doesn't let that slow him down. He loves to explore, make people laugh, and make sure everything is in its place. 

Carson is a Junior at Sprayberry High School and participates in the Jacket Java program, which provides coffee to our staff and students each morning.  Carson arrives to school early each day and greets every teacher and student as they enter the building.  His sparkling personality shines through and his ability to make everyone smile is unparalleled.  Carson is always willing to help others in class, in Jacket Java, and throughout the school.  

Kailani is a 10 year boy that have developmental delays, epilepsy and cerebral palsy. He have suffered with epilepsy from an infant and have always managed to keep a smile on his face despite what have happened to him. He is an inspiration to us all with he's will to be as independent as he can be and defeat most of the obstacles put in front of him.

Joseph is an example of never give up! He perseveres with cytistic fibros and Autism always with a smile on his face.

Bryson is 9 years old and has autism, a learning disability, and ADHD. He is a very happy child and tries very hard to keep up with his peers. He seeks positive approval from anyone who will give it. Going out is hard sometimes as he doesn't understand the concept of waiting for something to start or what time and days mean. Bryson always wakes up with a smile on his face though!

At 24 weeks into my twin pregnancy, I was rushed to the hospital with bleeding and preterm labor. Doctors determined that Madison was showing signs of distress. The neonatologists provided me with stats on viability at 24 weeks and the medical complications that could arise should the twins come this early. Thankfully, I did not go into full labor and Madison’s heart rate returned to normal. However, I continued to experience contractions and the medical team could not determine the source of my bleeding. At the same time, Madison had been diagnosed with intrauterine growth restriction. I remained in the hospital hoping to get the twins to 33 weeks before delivering. When the twins were 27 weeks and five days old, and I had been in the hospital on total bedrest for 22 days, the nurses came running in to put me on oxygen. Madison’s heart rate was dropping and did not recover as quickly as they wanted. The doctors determined that for Madison to survive, we would have to deliver the twins via emergency c-section that day. Madison weighed 1 pound 2 ounces and was only 10 1/2 inches long. She was placed on a ventilator immediately as she was not able to breath on her own. Her brother Joshua weighed 2 pounds 1 ounce, was 14 inches long, and required oxygen support as well. While in the NICU, Madison received medication several times to close her patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), blood transfusions, and several rounds of antibiotics to fight off infections. She remained on the ventilator for five weeks and after a short course of steroids, she was able to breathe without support. After 75 days in the NICU, Madison came home. Both she and her brother were discharged on oxygen support, which continued for several months thereafter. Since their early arrival, we have seen more doctors, experts, and therapists than I can count. Madison has been diagnosed with Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, Chronic Lung Disease, and Apraxia among other conditions.

Dylan is a 12 years old boy, he attends Smitha Middle School and is part of the Honor Roll. He has Autism loves music and math. He likes to dance, he played  basketball last year. He is very polite and respectful ,he likes to help other kids.

Jonathan is the youngest of four children. He has three older brothers who all have special needs. His dad stays home with his oldest brother with significant disabilities. His mom is a custodian in Bartow County. He is in the sixth grade at Barber Middle School. He is in small group classes and co-taught classes. Jonathan is the nicest, most polite young man I've been around. He comes into my classroom daily (I do not teach Jonathan. I teach students in a self-contained classroom who have more severe learning disabilities than he does). When he comes into the classroom, he speaks to my students, he gives me a hug, he asks everyone how they are doing and offers words of kindness and respect. I've overheard him telling my student that he likes their shirt or shoes. He is always speaking to them in the hallways and at specialty classes. In a world where kids are ostracized for being special, Jonathan doesn't see special. He sees people, peers and friends. He treats everyone the same. He is able to acknowledge that he has learning disabilities, but works very hard to be successful and help others along the way. Every teacher who meets Jonathan comes away with an inspiration to be a better person. He truly brings out the best in others by simply being kind to everyone. 

Aahil is 10 years old . He has autism , epilepsy and adhd . He is also non verbal .he has a lot of behavior issues but he loves to go to fairs and parks . He also loves to take rides .

Braeden is active in anything athletic. He loves baseball, football, basketball, golf, tennis… anything to do with sports.

Tim’s family moved to Smyrna in late October and he has been a helpful member of our class gentle guiding his team mates to the next activity or just getting them water or a marker.  He is a great citizen! 

Kristine is a 10 year old with Down Syndrome. She likes to be called Tine (pronounced Teen). Kristine just finished another surgery after her past three surgeries were unsuccessful. She's had 10 major surgeries so far and she still loves fearlessly. She helps with her baby sister. She helps put the dishes away even when it's her brothers chore. Kristine loves helping others and making people laugh. She has a communication device, but she prefers it to tell jokes. Tine works hard on her speech, but is still having difficulty being understood. We think she's incredible!

Troy is a high energy, animal loving 9 year old on the autism spectrum. He enjoys riding his bike, sports of all kinds, camping and going on adventures with his family. We are so excited for this opportunity from Superior Plumbing. Thank you everyone and please vote for Troy. He would love nothing more than the chance to go to a live Braves game.

Lucas is an extremely happy and charismatic individual.  He is full of life and is constantly working to make others happy.  Lucas enjoys working in the coffee shop, food pantry, and helping the school custodians.  He is an active member of the Men’s Chorus. He has sung the National Anthem at several different events including the Cherokee County Special Olympics Awareness Day.  

Darby has Autism. We have known since she was 18 months. She has benefitted from early intervention, school, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy and many supportive teachers so she could grow up to be the happiest sweet natured girl she is today. Darby also participated in Special Olympics since she was 8, horseback riding where she won her first gold medal, swimming and gymnastics. She is now on the HUGS team (Hope Unites Gymnastics with Special Athletes) Darby works at her old elementary school (Hickory hills) as a cafeteria monitor, she loves seeing all the kids and working with the staff since they all taught her when she went there. She is looking forward to starting the Tommy Nobis Academy in November to hopefully find a long-term job for her future. She would so enjoy being in you kids club to meet new friends and have wonderful experiences.

Darsh is 7yr old child diagnosed with Autism at age of three. He is a very sweet boy and very energetic. He loves to playing outside and water. He non verbal but his gesture says a lot. He loves giving hugs to everyone.

Tristan was born 10 yrs ago with Down Syndrome. 3 months after he was born, he had open heart surgery to repair 2 holes. He championed through and was able to come home after 4 days, when we were told that initially he would be there for 2 weeks. Tristan has continued to show resilience in all obstacles thrown at him: multiples therapies, numerous doctors visits,, hospital stays . He’s funny, smart, and he loves his family, soccer, basketball, and YouTube!

Jesse is a senior in High School in the Intellectual Disability program at Chattahoochee H.S.  He serves as the basketball manager for the JV team and attends as many sporting events as he can.  He LOVES the Braves and the Falcons.  He will often spend his leisure time streaming a Braves game while at school. 

Great artist. Loves to sing and style hair and makeup

JR. Is a 18 Yrs old Happy and Very Friendly Boy. He attend North Cobb High School at Kennesaw GA . He Loves Base Ball and Football. Likes to walk at the trail and do exercise . Mom Dad and older Brother are very proud of him and we Love him so much.

MaKayley is having her 8th surgery this coming December 30.  She has ehlers danlos syndrome.  She will be having surgery on her left hip this time.  She also suffers from asthma and stays sick a lot.

Pedro is a senior at Lakeside High School. Although he has a disability he is extremely social and active in school activities. He is the manager of the football and volleyball team. He is active in HOPE Club (Hispanics Organization Promoting Education) and SGA (Student Government Association. 

Mateo was born with multiple heart defects/congenital heart disease. He was diagnosed with a Bicuspid Aortic valve, Aortic Stenosis and an Aortic Aneurysm. He also has a few speech disorders/sensory processing disorders. Despite the big battles he faces, he tries to always keep a smile on his face even on the hard days. He is so kind to everyone and to know him is to love him!

Donny is a young man with Down syndrome who loves Horizon baseball and plays spring and fall ball.  He also likes to bowl and play mini golf.  He loves to watch football and lacrosse, hockey.

After High School, he began working at Zaxbys, and loves going to work each day.  Justin enjoys hanging out with his friends at the bowling alley, going swimming, to the gym, and the movies in his spare time. He loves all sports, especially kayaking, snow skiing, softball and basketball. He has earned many medals through Special Olympics. 

He graduated from Woodstock High School in 2011 and had some amazing teachers who supported and prepared him to work independently through community based jobs. We are very proud of his accomplishments and how he overcomes challenges due to having autism and seizures. 

Tylen is on the autism spectrum and attends Marietta High.   He loves to play with legos,  listen to music and watch the fish swim in his aquarium.   He's a gentle spirit who loves everyone and in return everyone loves him.   He has the brightest smile and the biggest heart. 

Gavin is seven going on eight he was born at 28 weeks weighing in at three pounds seven ounces and was diagnosed with cerebral palsy by age one and as each year goes on he has gained several more diagnosis like autism ADHD and seizure disorder. He can not walk on his own he uses a wheelchair for long distances and walker for short distances.

Jeremy is a funny kid who loves meeting new people. His favorite activities are swimming and arcades.

Andrew was diagnosed with autism at 18 months old with several diagnoses since. He has grown in many ways and we are so proud of him for that. 

He is an autistic kid and very friendly. He enjoy so much outdoor activities specially involving water theme.

Logan is 8 he was born with hydrocephalus,  he is autistic and he has apraxia of speech,  he can't talk yet,  but he very sweet. 

Colton is 9 years old, and has Down Syndrome. Colton is in 3rd grade. He is involved in competitive cheerleading. Colton has an infectious smile, and he absolutely loves living his best life!

Logan is brilliant, courageous, his smile and giggle are indescribable infectious! He was diagnosed with Autism and sensory processing disorder age the age of two. Logan has a brain and body disconnect. For example, Logan wants to sit and hangout with his family but his body takes him places like other rooms, outside and elopement is a huge concern for him and his family. He can communicate he wants and needs but struggles with things beyond that. He loves math, history, and science. He also enjoys swimming, hiking and loves his iPad! 

Eric is a student who consistently exemplifies integrity throughout the school day. Not only is he trustworthy and reliable, but he consistently displays a contagious and positive attitude in every social situation which makes him one of our top order-takers in the school coffee shop. Eric is a real go-getter. He is open to experiencing new opportunities and would benefit from being the recipient of Superior Plumbing's Special Needs Club. 

Cortni is my 15 year old daughter. She is beginning High School next school year. Cortni loves to play basketball, dance, cheer and swim. She was born with Down syndrome, but don’t let that fool you! She is amazing!