Stefanie Boggs-Johnson

Unlocking Potential

April 7, 2020 by Stefanie Boggs-Johnson Leave a Comment

“Don’t judge a book by its cover” is a quote proven over and over again through many encounters and situations. I recently meant a group of people that proved, once again, that a cover, alone, does not indicate the character within. We all have the potential to achieve an exemplary life, despite how our current situation may appear to others.

I was blessed recently to have spent a day watching a dedicated ministry make a difference in the life stories of young people in the Solano County Juvenile Detention Facility. I first learned about the Juvenile Hall Ministry of the Revival Center Church in Vallejo, California through my co-worker, Denise Nance, a sincere and bubbly soul who always has a kind word (and hug!) for everyone.

In a recent conversation, Denise shared about her twelve years of mentoring troubled youth. Though it did not surprise me that such a joyful person helped others, I was deeply moved at how her heart hurt for their hardships and I was moved by her passion to make a difference in the lives of young people with words of love and hope. She then introduced me to others with the same mission. One of those people was Anthony Williams, the lead pastor of this ministry for 23 years.

As I talked with Pastor Anthony, it was uplifting to hear the same joy in his voice as he told me about sharing the Gospel with people who were dealt an unfair hand in life—individuals whose struggles in life often resulted in unresolved emotions. Beginning as a mainstream rapper in his teenage years, he was led to Christian rap in 1984 and became a youth pastor. He formed a youth group and focused on studying the bible, and teaching skills on how to minister to the outside world. With a 2.0 GPA requirement and a commitment of one year, this outreach program provided stability and kept youth off the streets. It was this outreach that later brought Pastor Anthony to the Revival Center. His passion to rap and his gift to teach expanded vastly, and the Juvenile Hall Ministry was formed.

Individuals who wish to join are required to complete one day of training, where the rules and guidelines of the juvenile hall are reviewed. Participants also undergo a live scan fingerprint (background check) and commit to the first Sunday of every month to have group discussions in “pods, ” which are gender and age-specific areas within the juvenile hall facility. The ministry participants spend the first three months in the lobby praying and singing. After that initial period, they are each assigned to a team for each “pod.”

My family and I sat in the lobby where we joined in a prayer circle before soaking in the beautiful singing and positive words of affirmation during the hour. I was so moved. I cried tears that came from an array of emotions that inspired me; I felt a sense of hope for a world that can be so difficult for both children and adults. I found it incredible how devoted this ministry is, as it works to change the negative aspects of life that so many young people struggle with. While the covers of their stories may show a picture of being locked up physically, through this ministry, doors are opened to compassion and love. Even though the consequences of past actions must be faced, it is always unconditional love and compassion that “unlocks” their potential.

I was so grateful to be in the presence of individuals who work to inspire others. Thank you, Pastor Anthony. Thank you, Denise. Thank you, Revival Center.

May we all remember that it is never too late—that mistakes are only stepping-stones, and not the final chapter of our life stories. May the world always embrace making new choices, because whether young or old, we all have the potential to create chapters that paint a new picture.

For more information about the Juvenile Hall Ministry or Revival Center, please visit: https://www.revivalcenter.org/

Caring Awareness

March 11, 2020 by Stefanie Boggs-Johnson Leave a Comment

The month of March always has me in deep reflection. As an awareness month to educate the public about Cerebral Palsy and all that this medical diagnosis signifies, I think about all that my 11-year-old daughter has survived. I think about what emotional turmoil my family and I have survived and about the many families with a special needs diagnosis.

While caring and awareness may be brief for some, the many “hats” that I must wear are the forever symbols of the delicate care I must incorporate, as life is now filled with priorities much different than those of mainstream society. It is a rocky path strewn with emotional, physical, financial, and medical challenges, but these bumps in the road can be faced with help from caring organizations like CARE Parent Network.

Founded over 30 years ago after the implementation of The Lanterman Act (laws to protect and grant equal rights for those with disabilities), CARE Parent Network is a family resource center that provides support for the disabled and the loved ones that care for them.

When my daughter was first diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, a medical condition due to injury of the Cerebral Cortex (the part of the brain that controls muscle movement and function), I thought her world had been shattered into pieces, resulting in many future hardships. Families feel lost after being told by a medical professional that their child has a condition that will limit their physical or developmental ability. They can feel alone with their fears as they navigate medical terminologies, paperwork, and life-long commitments to readjusting their daily schedules—let alone the educational options and legal rights of which one must be knowledgeable in order to wear a respectful but firm hat of advocacy. While a parent cares for the child, CARE Parent Network takes care of the family unit, providing a network of supportive and informative options.

Whether through support groups or one-on-one support, CARE Parent Network’s staff are not only knowledgeable but empathetic, as they are, themselves, special needs parents, like program director Hannah Michaelsen. With a degree in public administration and the parent of a son was with Autism, Hannah was a volunteer for CARE for 14 years before becoming its program director. The most gratifying part of her job, she states, “is to share in a chapter where others are more empowered and confident because of CARE’s existence; to equip the parents to advocate and navigate not only the system, but their daily lives.” Through CARE, doors are opened to compassionate directions of understanding. They help clients navigate the intricate paperwork of IEPs (educational planning and goals) and legal rights, as well as addressing personal concerns and frustrations.

May the months that introduce awareness also introduce connections that inspire compassion and a purpose to create a sustainable and capable community; one where a disability turns into visibility beyond the fog that can overwhelm us.

The ribbon we wear this month is about being aware that there are people who do care. It is a ribbon worn not just once a year but every day. May CARE Parent Network continue to weave together all ribbons and teach families to wear them with not just pride but unwavering hope.

For more information, please visit careparentnetwork.org or visit their Facebook group page: Care Parent Network

Breaking Patterns

February 5, 2020 by Stefanie Boggs-Johnson Leave a Comment

Just like a national holiday or a particular month that focuses on a person or group of people who overcame enormous challenges changes your perceptions, sometimes you meet someone that unexpectedly adds to that enhanced appreciation of life. A person I met recently, Nekisha Gallon, is one of those people that touches your life the moment you meet her.

With a heart to always strive for a better life than what she endured as a child, Nekisha Gallon is a true spiritual survivor who aims to be a light to anyone she meets. A bright soul I crossed paths with in the past year, we instantly connected because of our experiences with the foster care system. Her story began in 2001 when she was only 11 years old and forced to endure the emotional turmoil as she was removed from her home and placed into the custody of the Contra Costa County foster care system. She endured painful experiences no child should ever have to face.

The oldest of six siblings, Nekisha and her younger brothers and sisters were separated, placed into not just one foster care home but multiple foster care homes. Caught in the crossfire of her mother’s crack addiction, she dealt with multiple instances of sexual abuse at the hands of people who were supposed to care for her. Even with all these tragedies in her memories, Nekisha always knew that God had a different plan for her life.

Watching her mother make diligent efforts to show up for the supervised visits, the devastation and difficulties of her mother’s choices, along with the lack of follow through from the county’s family court system, she witnessed the deterioration of her mother’s mental state. What could have been an opportunity for her mother, Rocquel, to be provided with direction and resources for rehabilitation, sadly resulted in her living on the streets of North Richmond.

Dealing with the world with her heart on her sleeve just like her daughter, Rocquel has endured harassment and insults as she survives sleeping in parks and any abandoned home she can find. Nekisha still visits her in this environment out of unconditional love and a desire to keep her thoughts on what is good in this world and how she can add something good in her mother’s life.

It can be a very cruel world that we live in but there are offsets because of the determination of individuals like my dear friend to keep on keepin’ on. Sadly, growing up in a dysfunctional family environment often leads to a continuation of the dysfunction. However, Nekisha shattered the limitations by graduating with honors from high school and now attends Cal State East Bay, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business. In 2015 she married her high school sweetheart and is a mother of two children, Angelo Jr. and A’Naiyah. Today she works full-time in her own fitness business, “Flexin With Keke,” and is working to raise funds to help her mother with future rehabilitation costs.

You never know what someone has been through and their capacity to make necessary changes, despite pushbacks, so don’t judge a book by its cover because behind that “book” may be loved ones wanting a better path for all involved. Whether a person is part of the mainstream or the struggling homeless, everyone has a story to share. When the day begins and you walk out the door to face it, remember that there are those who have endured or who are enduring a rough path.

The pain of the past can be the lesson that helps us grow and break patterns; to plant the seeds that help the community and many we may never meet. It was such an honor to get to know about Nekisha and her family’s life. Just like her business name, instead of letting the problems keep her down, she is determined to flex through the mess. It is a pattern we all should imitate.

For more information regarding fundraising or to be a physical fitness member with “Flexin_With_Keke”, please email flexinwithkeke@gmail.com

It Takes a Village

December 31, 2019 by Stefanie Boggs-Johnson Leave a Comment

Writing has always been an outlet for me. Since I was a child, I was drawn to reading books (I was a regular at my local library) and soon to follow was journal writing, poetry, and excitement whenever given an essay assignment in school. As time went by, like most people, I strayed away from my creative passions to earn more accessible income employment through the common employment sectors of retail or administrative work. I eventually became a parent and the rest is history. I was officially another number added to the percentage of creatively inclined individuals that stopped doing the things they loved. It wasn’t until my youngest child survived a stroke that I got my writing groove back. At first it was to help me cope with this unexpected trauma but it became more than that as time passed.

The year 2020 invites many cliché statements to make it a year of gaining a new perspective, making a year of clear visions and so on. While I do hope it is a year of new opportunities and realizing the potential available for all of us, I wanted to reflect on 2019 as a contributor to Alive East Bay Magazine. With my decision to focus on special needs inclusion and provide awareness along with hope for the special needs community, I thought it would be articles that would help families going through similar struggles. As I sought new ideas and topics each month with the typical writer’s block, I had an epiphany. In addition to provide awareness, hope and resources for special needs families I thought “why not interview individuals or organizations?”. And so I did. It was the most enlightening and positive decision I could have made. The year 2019 turned into such positive introductions to the many people in our community that have hearts of gold. With all the despair shoved in our faces and our ears, it was a breath of fresh air to interview those that provide assistance, time and love for others that struggle. My warm and fuzzy monthly articles not only gave me a new appreciation for our world but introduced me to a new definition of the term “special needs”. It is a term intended to reference those with physical or developmental delays. I found, through the many people I got to meet in person or by phone, that it is an umbrella term because although not every person needs physical assistance, every human has a special need to feel included, acknowledged, appreciated and most of all loved. Everyone, no matter their physical or developmental abilities, has a need of emotional, mental and spiritual fulfillment. We all have a need to feel special. We all have a need to not just survive but to feel “Alive.”

My articles began as a way for me to inspire families with medical struggles but I was inspired- by the people I met and the tenacity of their focus to help others struggling daily. As a new year begins, while my focus is still inclusion, it will encompass my new appreciation for those who have survived the unthinkable. It will also encompass those who lend a hand along with blood, sweat and tears to provide some ease for those going through unfortunate moments that can happen to any of us. It’s a boomerang. What we give, we get back in tenfold. It takes not just one person but a village. So begins 2020 with grateful hindsight and a new vision for my articles- to expand my promoting of inclusion that started with those with medical delays to also encircle all random acts of human kindness. Welcome to “It Takes A Village.” I hope you join me monthly as I share my experiences of meeting people that continue to enlarge the circle of inclusion, connection and joy that covers the multitude of struggles all humans may face in their lives. May my articles be one of many droplets that help maintain a spiritual, mental, and emotional 20/20 vision that reminds you that you are never alone.

What Have You Got To Lose?

December 5, 2019 by Stefanie Boggs-Johnson Leave a Comment

We all have a special need to feel that we belong. Whether it is the community in which we live, our family or our work life, there is a basic human need in all of us to be included. As the holiday seasons approach, for some it is an activity or to do list that is completed without blinking an eye. For others, it is a task that they long to complete with an objective to be able to provide someone with a gift or gesture that they otherwise wouldn’t receive. However, what is a simple task for some can be a mentally and emotionally burdensome goal that they struggle to complete. Dire situations, whether financially, emotionally or medically, exist for many people around us. It is out of compassion that others take action to help alleviate some, if not all, of the burdens of others.

Just as holidays can be misrepresented as a time to buy expensive gifts out of obligation, the season can also be a time where we get to see the best in people through their actions. Whether it is individuals, businesses, or organizations, a sense of hope and inclusion is provided to others through compassionate, kind effort. It is a way to let others know, whether we know them or not, that they are not forgotten.

The collaboration of Bay Alarm Company and Toys for Tots is a perfect example of such compassion.

“To whom much is given, much is expected,” is a quote that says to help when you have the resources to do so, especially if you have an overflow of those resources. Mary Smith is one person who provides new meaning to this quote, who gives without expecting anything in return. It is the pure joy of giving to others just to see the smiles on children’s faces and the display of relief and gratitude from the families. Remembering the experiences in her life when there were struggles, Mary Smith made it a part of her personal day to day life to help others through volunteering or giving gifts to those in need.

In 1986, she extended her fundraising activities to Toys for Tots and eventually through her employer, Bay Alarm. Bay Alarm began generously matching the funds raised at 100%, doubling the financial ability to provide gifts for families that struggle all year long to make ends meet, let alone obtain extra provisions during a holiday. It was in 2016 that Mary’s fundraising at work reached the highest earnings of $35,000.00 with all of it used to purchase gifts and care packages for the Toys for Tots families. Whether it was families in foster care, those struggling with addiction, or individuals with medical challenges, it was through her 30+ years of devotion to giving to others that still reminds the world that it takes a village.

In 2019, Mary Smith retired from Bay Alarm. At her retirement celebration she was surprised with an honorary gift—a dedication award from Bay Alarm that included the new title of the fundraising efforts to be named “Mary Smith Toys for Tots.” Just as their logo says, “What Have You Got to Lose?”, her employer showed its gratitude because when a village practices unconditional giving, that village has nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Even though people may retire from jobs, people never retire from having a heart to compassionately give others a moment of joy just when they need it the most. As the torch is passed for other kind-hearted Bay Alarm employees to maintain the momentum of giving, may the same selfless energy of these individuals carry on infinitely.

That’s what the season is meant to represent—when we give it our all with a focus to benefit others, we never lose. We gain memories and set the paths that last for generations. Bay Alarm, Toys for Tots, and Mary Smith are reminders of what really counts in life; not the measurable and tangible, but the immeasurable and intangible. May we all stay on a path to deliver hope from the heart, not just during the holidays, but every day.

For more information on how you can give to those in need, please visit:

www.toysfortots.org

For more information about Bay Alarm’s community support, please visit:

https://www.bayalarm.com/company/community/

Goalbusters

November 13, 2019 by Stefanie Boggs-Johnson Leave a Comment

Breaking through barriers is never easy. There will be individuals who will support your endeavors and have your back, and there will be others who belittle your goals and dreams. Then there are those on the same path as you. You join the flock and decide not to give up after all. You keep going for that goal.

That is what AYSO VIP League did for my perspective of finding a sport for children within the special needs community. A soccer organization that offers competitive sports for the mainstream and a non-competitive sport for those diagnosed with special needs (VIP), my husband and I signed up our ten-year-old daughter. We were not disappointed.

The season recently ended and, after having the enjoyment of watching my daughter’s confidence flourish on the field, I was so impressed. It was so positive and touching to watch how the VIP coaches and mainstream coaches collaborated in each game. Assigned as “buddies,” the team of mainstream kids patiently interacted with the VIP team. I watched inclusion and a balance of competitiveness of which the opposing team adjusted, based on the skill level of my daughter’s team. It was an hour of easygoing enjoyment where no mama or papa bear showed their fangs on the sidelines. The players played, the parents watched, and the coaches coached.

It was because of the coaches that these moments were able to occur with passion, focus and consistency—all of it done on a volunteer basis. The coaches, past and present, exemplified action that came from their hearts. As I recently sat with them enjoying a spaghetti dinner at the VIP Soccerfest costume party, I was amazed at how long they all have been dedicated to providing an inclusive sport for a special group of young individuals.

The fearless leader of my daughter’s team, “Goalbusters,” Peter Gaughan (aka Coach Pete) has volunteered with the AYSO VIP league for 21 years with some of those years as Director for the league. His spunky “let’s do this!” attitude was apparent to me the moment I meant him. To find out how long he has been giving his time and energy only added to my respect for him. His coaching assistant, Cecilia Romero-Chavez, became involved after moving from Richmond to Pleasant Hill and began looking for sports activities for her son. Through her “Googling,” she became part of AYSO VIP in 2006 and is currently the Division Coordinator. They are a duo that follows through with emails, practices and games. Also in attendance at the league’s Halloween celebration was Steve Forbes, who began volunteering in 1997. Even though he no longer volunteers as a coach, there he was attending this event for these special kids out of pure admiration for the division and all it stands for—inclusion. I truly felt surrounded by sincere human beings.

If you are a parent of a child diagnosed with a special need and are in doubt of which way to turn or how to find a compatible environment, just know that you are not alone in feeling overwhelmed or in despair. Uplifting, helpful, and inspiring resources are available in many different forms. Achieving milestones are possible for people of all abilities. There is a flock ready to include you to help you bust through any barriers and reach the goal. I know this to be true because my family and I started out with so much fear and despair. Now, ten years later, we get to witness our daughter “bust” out of any restrictive assumptions that society prematurely places, and she is achieving more goals than we ever could have imagined. Every child is born with VIP status but AYSO helped remind my daughter’s teammates that they are all “Goalbusters.”

Thank you AYSO VIP league coaches and volunteers. I hope my gratitude in this article is the fuel that keeps reminding all of you that your devoted actions do make a difference. It is your efforts that reminds me that there is always a flock that I can call upon. As Coach Pete would say at the end of every game, “Who you gonna call?”, I happily answer along with my daughter “Goalbusters!”

For more information about AYSO VIP League, please visit https://ayso.org/play/vip/

Throwback

October 13, 2019 by Stefanie Boggs-Johnson Leave a Comment

I have always been the type of mom who takes initiative in seeking out activities for both of my children to enjoy. My son, Stefan, who is now 18 and attending UC Irvine, had no limitations pertaining to education or in choosing a sport or hobby. His sister, Naomi, an enutero stroke survivor that has overcome many challenges, enjoys the outdoors and just as many activities, although I must be more selective based on her abilities.

Ten years have passed since her birth and with each new year, I learn anew how to come to terms with the reality of learning to navigate the special needs world. Whether it be the stress of her medical appointments, paperwork, therapy, or educational goals, like many other families of the special needs community, I try to live one day at a time as I tame my worries about her future.

What helps most with offsetting the mental bouts of “future tripping” are the many groups and foundations that she has been able to enjoy. One of the most recent adventures she and I enjoyed was a day of experiencing the sport of fishing with the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation. Short for “Catch a Special Thrill,” the time she spent that day catching her first fish was definitely a thrill.

Formed in 1991 by Jim Powell, who wanted to provide an activity that people of all abilities could equally enjoy, he connected “passioneers” of fishing with children who were diagnosed with physical or developmental challenges to enjoy a day of fishing. The foundation became an official 501(c)3 in 1994 and currently hosts three programs: C.A.S.T. for Kids, Fishing Kids, and Take a Warrior Fishing.

With fishing events throughout the United States, families are taken on a fishing adventure by many people who not only volunteer their time but also their boats. C.A.S.T. dedicates all funds throughout the year with monies exclusively used for all the supplies. Supported by many other organizations such as California Boating & Waterway and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, free safety education is provided along with ensuring appropriate fitting of life jackets.

The energy of pure joy was matched with a sense of responsibility for the sport along with the dedication of providing a momentous occasion for children (and their families!). The day also included each child being given their very own fishing rod, a fully stocked tackle box, and a BBQ lunch to enjoy after an awesome boat ride.

In attendance that day was also Assemblyman Jim Frazier, who assisted with the event as a special needs advocate and provided many resources that helped make this event at the Sugar Barge Resort on Bethel Island possible. If that wasn’t enough, through the many organizing tasks of volunteer coordinators Renza Badilla and Nicholas Schofield, BASS Competition members were integrated to add even more pro fisherman to the list of kind-hearted individuals that dedicate their day and skills.

It was such a great time for my daughter and I. She was shown the despite difficult challenges someone may face in this world, there are activities such as fishing that make it very easy to have a successful day. We got the pleasure of her being shown the basics of fishing, along with being on a beautiful boat, by BASS Angler magazine owner Mark Lassagne.

The focus on enjoying the experience was felt through the entire event. And, unlike the small fish we may catch that are too small to keep, the memories created for my daughter cannot be thrown back. They are forever hers to keep. It will be a conversation that she will get to share with her kids one day. C.A.S.T. For Kids will be a “throwback” recollection shared by the many that were blessed to attend. The thrills of catching that first fish will make waves for years to come. Thank you, C.A.S.T. For Kids, for catching so many hearts of so many families and providing a day where everyone was included in learning the love of fishing.

For more information about the C.A.S.T. For Kids Foundation, please visit: castforkids.org

Inclusion Clubhouse

September 16, 2019 by Stefanie Boggs-Johnson Leave a Comment

It amazes me how love motivates one to do things that have such positive rippling effects. These ripples start at a center and form beautiful consequences that encircle all that was originally on the outside. It’s always a mission of the highest order when the cause, the center, was for the benefit of others. The rock of a mother’s love makes the deepest circle of ripples. Linda Baptista Hall is proof of this.

Founder of the non-profit organization, Inclusion Clubhouse and Djanai’s Angels, Linda Hall took the wheel while on a very emotional and bumpy road after her daughter Djanai’s medical diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy that was the result of Hypoplasia of the Corpus Callosum (the thinning of the line that lies between the hemispheres of the brain). After many years of vocalizing concerns about signs of Djanai having developmental delays since she was an infant, it wasn’t until age three that her daughter’s condition was finally diagnosed and she finally began receiving appropriate medical assistance.

Linda’s tenacity kept and still keeps the mission always to seek out what is best for her family. Seeing an opportunity in 2014 to provide her daughter the enjoyment of an event more easily accessible for the mainstream than those with limited abilities, she organized a celebration of Djanai’s birthday as a “Sweet 16” prom. After this event where families of all abilities raved about the joy-filled celebration, Linda founded Inclusion Clubhouse and began the annual special needs prom to raise funds for the formation of a clubhouse where the special needs and mainstream community can connect on a year-round basis. Along with this amazing feat, she also formed Djanai’s Angels to provide resources for the special needs community. Through her adaptable clothing boutiques, special needs fitness events and summer camps, she maintains a daily environment where anyone of any ability is welcome.

The village within her own home which includes her husband Pooch Hall (actor of Showtime’s “Ray Donovan”), her children Djanai, Djaeda, Djordan, and Djulian, expands outside of her Southern California doors into the hearts of so many other families that struggle to feel connected. Djanai’s siblings take a challenging adjustment and turn it into an insightful outlook to share with others as they navigate the struggles that come with caring for their oldest sister.

As 12-year-old Djaeda and eleven-year-old Djordan sweetly stated, one must see that everyone is different and to not judge a book by its cover when it comes to the treatment of others; underneath appearances there lies a very loving attribute.

The focus of Inclusion Clubhouse not only taught her children but also many other families to celebrate our differences across all boundaries. When the sixth annual “A Trip Around The World” special needs family prom takes place on Sept 22^nd in Winnetka, California, deeply rooted connections will form for many families from all walks of life.

As Linda Hall aims to expand her mission to bring the special needs family prom to the East Bay, love will continue to reach the multitude of individuals around her and the world.

May the ripples be felt for generations to come.

For more information and to purchase tickets for the “A Trip Around The World” Special Needs Family Prom located in Southern California, please visit: http://inclusionclubhouse.org/

Stefanie Boggs-Johnson is the author of “I See You, Little Naomi” and “I See You, Little Andrew.” Her educational children’s books promote special needs awareness and compassion. She is also a licensed cosmetologist and owner of For Every Season, a mobile beauty service for the special needs community. For more information visit ForEverySeasonServices.com

The Lunch Bunch

August 12, 2019 by Stefanie Boggs-Johnson Leave a Comment

Never mistake someone who is in a wheelchair and needs assistance doing daily tasks as someone who is weak. If you currently have a stereotype about anyone diagnosed with special needs, then you need to meet Jane Coggins. This driven, unique and positive young lady wakes up every morning excited about her day. Her talent with digital animation through the assistance of her communication devices has her focused on pursuing animation courses. Persevering through any challenge, she matches the vision board that hangs in her bedroom with persistent action and, with the help of her mother Kelly, has recently contacted a media company for a job in the animation field.

Diagnosed with “SMA” which stands for Spinal Muscular Atrophy, her voluntary muscles do not receive the messages of the nerve cells (motor neurons) of her spinal cord. There are different levels of muscular limitation based on what age the onset of SMA occurs. The earlier the onset, the more affected the individual. Jane was diagnosed at 10 months old and receives 24-hour assistance. Do not dismay (fiery and creative Jane doesn’t, so why should we?) because the village surrounding her provides not only assistance with basic needs but with friendships where the connections run deep.

The first connection for Jane began with her friend Raquel, in kindergarten. Fast forward to 2nd grade at Buena Vista Elementary in Walnut Creek, California, through the inclusion focus within educational settings, children from mainstream classes were asked if they would like to partner up with individuals in the special needs’ classes

It was this blessed connection that formed “The Lunch Bunch” and added to Jane’s friend list was Madi, Gabi, Alisa, Kathryn and Amelia. These seven musketeers will show anyone a thing or two about never putting a person of any age or “disability” into a box. If you are ever worried about the future of our world, the teenagers that will soon take the paths provided for them along with paving new ones, please refer to this article as many times as needed. The driven, devoted and compassionate actions of this group spark the light of hope.

For example, Amelia started a bracelet fundraiser when they were all in 7th grade to help raise funds for a hot tub that provided physical therapy for Jane. Titled “Come Together for Jane,” Amelia and the rest of the Lunch Bunch raised $1000.00 selling the bracelets at school and in their neighborhood. Gabi dedicated a whole page of their school’s yearbook to share Jane’s story. They wrote a letter and obtained 300 signatures to petition the Acalanes Unified High School District to provide appropriate education as Jane transitioned from 8th grade into high school. This year they will all take part in the “Walk-n-Roll” fundraiser to help raise awareness and research funds for SMA. They all show up through major efforts but, most importantly, they all show up for Jane daily and keep her a part of their daily lives—hanging out, holidays, trick or treating, and birthday celebrations, to name a few.

As a mom who sees these displays of light towards her daughter while also looking within, Kelly expresses her gratitude for growing up in the Walnut Creek community. Being a parent who appreciates all that life offers, she practices Reiki and is active in the “Yoga Works” community, and even conducted a fundraiser called “Yoga From the Heart for Jane.”

Sitting down with the “Lunch Bunch” gives one a new perspective—one where you realize there are selfless people everywhere willing to encircle others with emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual support. But you won’t be “sitting” for long, as this group will pull you back up in so many wonderful ways.

So, as they prepare for the “Walk-n-Roll” fundraiser walk on August 24th at Kennedy Grove in El Sobrante, California, in an event benefitting SMA research and treatment, you’ll see a group of women who don’t just sit with a friend, they hold her hand as they all walk this thing called life—a good life indeed, with the “Lunch Bunch.”

For more information about the Walk-n-Roll, Cure SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) contact Cure SMA at http://events.curesma.org/norcalwalk, or call 800.886.1762, or email info@curesma.org

Mind Over Matter

July 10, 2019 by Stefanie Boggs-Johnson Leave a Comment

During one of my “productive” bouts of checking my social media newsfeeds, I came upon a post by this awesome woman that was for families of young stroke survivors. Her post brought tears to my eyes because I am part of this flock of parents that still can “lose the wind” under my wings as I try to stay above the tough moments so that I can protect and be there for my ten year old daughter who shares the same medical mountain of being an en utero stroke survivor. It gave me chills that I was given an emotional refill of hope for my daughter’s future because of the gift of another’s triumph and courage to share their story. The mountain is never climbed alone. I read her post over and over again, knowing that her words had to be shared. May her story remind us all that our fears of the unknown are not the authors of our lives. Our story is not done. May we remember what truly matters—that only strength, hope, and love have the final say.

My name is Taylor Teal and I live in Denham Springs, Louisiana. I am 22 years old and a pediatric stroke survivor. Shortly after birth the nurse noticed I was having episodes of asphyxiation and I was tested for various conditions. After twenty-two hours it was determined I had a stroke in utero and was having seizures as a result. A CAT scan determined one third of my brain was severely damaged. Due to the amount of fluid on my brain, the doctors determined that the stroke had occurred at least 7-10 days before my birth.

My stroke caused the left side of my body to be very weak. I have limited use of my left arm or hand and I also walk with a limp. I started physical therapy at one month old and continued to do it until I was about 15 years old. Due to not fully being able to use my right arm and hand, I had struggles throughout my life and still do at times. Most of my struggles were physical tasks such as getting dressed, tying my shoes and blow-drying my hair. Some tasks I still have difficulty doing are opening things like water bottles, cutting food, picking up heavy things, and putting on jewelry.

As I got older, I taught myself how to do most everything by using one hand, like tying my shoes, dressing myself, and putting my hair in a pony-tail. Although I had struggles, my parents always found ways to help me do things my way. When I couldn’t ride a bike, they got me a tricycle. I wanted to play softball like “normal” kids, so they helped me learn to play by holding and swinging the bat with one hand. Those are a few examples.

It is important to think outside the box when it comes to figuring out how to do things, even though they may not be done the way an individual with no medical limitations would do them. I have always had high spirits and been very determined when it came to overcoming obstacles. Some negative effects on my family are that they constantly worry about the things I have a difficult time doing and how I will do certain things as I get older. A positive effect for them has been to see how strong, independent, and determined this has made me.

My experience of being a pediatric stroke survivor hasn’t always been easy, but it has made me the person I am today. I often wondered growing up “Why did this have to happen to me?” I wanted to be normal like other kids but knew I never would. I would just always remind myself that God made me this way and He did so for a reason. He knew I would be able to handle this situation and overcome so many things for which I am forever grateful. I am inspired by others I meet who are going through similar struggles in life and finding ways to thrive.

This past May I graduated college, earning a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies. This has been my biggest accomplishment thus far in life. I am now working for a case management company as a support coordinator for people with special needs. I have always been extremely passionate towards individuals with special needs due to my own situation and the many years of being around others with special needs at therapy. I always knew I wanted to do something involving people with special needs and I am so thankful I am now able to do so.

My advice for individuals with special needs is to not let your situation define you, because it absolutely doesn’t. One must never give up no matter how frustrating or hard it can be at times; you can do anything you put your mind to. It is okay to be different and not “normal.” This was very hard for me to accept when I was younger. The older I got the more I realized that just because I am different, it does not mean that I am not able to do the same tasks or activities. My advice for families of those with special needs would be to never lose hope or give up on them. They need your help and support more than you know, so always try and stay positive. Even though it may not be an easy road and there will be difficult times, find the good in every situation. My advice to mainstream families would be do not treat those with special needs any different than any other individual.

Last but not least, always accept those with differences because it is okay to be different.

For more information regarding pediatric stroke, please visit: https://pediatricstrokewarriors.org/