Akron-Canton Special Needs Living magazine

JUNE 2022

meet

GRADY! Photo by Michelle Herdlick

2

June 2022

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

3

save the date

YOU ARE INVITED TO

ALL-STARS

AT THE

ALLEY

Help us fill the alley to support inclusive sports for people of ALL abilities Presented by Huntington Bank and Special Needs Living magazine

Bowl strikes? Gutter balls? No worries! Everyone is welcome!

(four bowlers per lane, smaller groups will be combined)

Light up the night with us … enjoy bowling, friends, food, and fun!

Four bowlers per team/$60 per bowler registration fee includes:

Register by Friday, July 22, 2022

For more information, contact Jeff Campano at 330-762-9755, ext.

233 or jcampano@udsakron.org

Bowling begins at 6:30 p.m.

• Two hours of bowling (wacky/cosmic) • shoe rental • appetizers/pizza/soft drinks • ’80s-themed games and raffles

Spins Bowl Akron 2911 E. Waterloo Rd., Akron

All proceeds benefit All-Star Training Club (a program of UDS)

Saturday, July 30, 2022, from 6–9 p.m.

save the date

You are invited to the Fourth Annual

Make ‘M Smile Event Make ‘m Smile is a party to honor and celebrate people with all types of disabilities, our VIPs.

Nathaniel’s Hope Fourth Annual Make ‘m Smile Saturday, July 9, 2022 The biggest party celebrating kids of all ages with special needs.

VIPs are individuals with value and incredible purpose of all ages and include any physical, cognitive, medical, or hidden disability, chronic or life-threatening illness, or those who are medically fragile.

Hartville Memorial Park 335 Park Lane Dr. SW Hartville Ohio 44632 (Please use 225 Lincoln St. SW. Hartville, Ohio for GPS location)

This event is FREE for VIPs, but registration is required for all. Please visit makemsmileohio.org for more information. Registration is open now on the Facebook page: Make ‘M Smile Ohio.

Come as a VIP; be our honored guest!

4

June 2022

For more information about registration or to volunteer for this event, email us at makemsmileohio@ nathanielshope.org or visit our Facebook page: Make ‘M Smile Ohio.

Hosted by Harvestime Temple and supported by Special Needs Living magazine

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

5

I M P O RTA N T

C o m m u n ity C o n n e ct i o n s

n2co.com Delivering Neighborhood Connections © 2022 The N2 Company, Inc.

For Content or Advertising inquiries: Rick Miller (330) 283-8462 rick.miller@n2pub.com

Need to know who to connect with to ask a question?

This is where you find out who you need to know!

Akron Blind Center Phone: (330) 253-2555 Website: www.akronblindcenter.org

Greenleaf Family Center (Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services) Phone: 330-376-9494 Website: www.greenleafctr.org

Akron Children’s Hospital Phone: (330) 543-1000 Website: www.akronchildrens.org

Help Me Grow Phone: (330) 492-8136 Website: https://odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/ help-me-grow/help-me-grow

Arc of Ohio Phone: (234) 571-5689 Website: www.thearcofohio.org Autism Society of Greater Akron Phone: (330) 940-1441 Website: www.autismakron.org Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired (BSVI) Website: www.ood.ohio.gov/individuals-with-disabilities/ services/services-for-the-visually-impaired Medina, Portage, and Summit Counties Phone: 330-643-3080 Carroll and Stark Counties Phone: 330-438-0500 Call 211 Phone: 211 Website: www.211.org Compassion Delivered Phone: (330) 575-0996 Website: www.compassiondelivered.org Down Syndrome Association of Northeast Ohio Phone: (216) 447-8763 Website: www.dsaneo.org

6

June 2022

Ohio’s Parent Mentor Project Phone: (844) 382-5452 Website: www.parentmentor.osu.edu Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities Phone: (844) 382-5452 Website: www.ocecd.org Ohio Department of Medicaid Phone: (800) 324-8680 Website: www.medicaid.ohio.gov Ohio Dept of Job and Family Services Phone: (800) 720-9616 Website: www.jfs.ohio.gov Ohio Developmental Disabilities Planning Council Website: www.ddc.ohio.gov Phone: 800-766-7426 Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities Phone: (800) 282-4536 Website: www.ood.ohio.gov People First in Ohio Website: www.peoplefirstohio.org Philomatheon Society of the Blind Phone: 330-453-9157 Website: www.philomatheon.com

Red Treehouse - Ronald McDonald Family Website: www.redtreehouse.org Sharing Solutions Phone: (330) 546-2001 Website: www.sharingsolutions.info

ENGAGE, EDUCATE, EMPOWER!

Social Security Administration - Akron Phone: (800) 772-1213 Website: www.secure.ssa.gov Social Security Administration - Canton Phone: (877) 255-1509 Website: www.secure.ssa.gov Stark County Board of DD Phone: (330) 477-5200 Website: www.starkdd.org Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board Phone: (330) 634-8000 Website: www.summitdd.org

GET TO KNOW ALL WE HAVE TO OFFER!

TRIAD Deaf Services Phone: (330) 768-7272 Website: www.triadds.org

CONNECT WITH US! Scan Here and Follow us for updates on your favorite Social Channels

HAVE A RECOMENDATION? Scan this QR code to submit a Community Resource you’d like to recommend to the community here

Have a suggestion for an important connection that could be added to this page? Email your suggestion to rick.miller@n2pub.com.

Actually,

I CAN.

Get connected TODAY! (234) 714-9815 mrs.hadnett@gmail.com @ Jason's Place Inc

DISCLAIMER: This publication is owned by The N2 Company and is not affiliated with or sponsored by any club, developer, or homeowners association. Articles and advertisements in this publication and opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of N2 but remain solely those of the author(s) or advertiser(s). The paid advertisements contained within this magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2.

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

7

Sponsor I N D E X This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood vendor to use.

Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring the publication. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the publication!

ABA SERVICES Applied Behavioral Connections Kristen Maple (330) 309-3133 info@appliedbehavioralconnections.com

DISABILITY RESOURCES REM Ohio, Inc Jo Spargo (330) 644-9730 www.rem-oh.com

JOB PLACEMENT SERVICES Independent Employment Services Malcolm Porter (330) 388-5778 www.independentemploy.com

ACCESSIBILITY & SAFETY MODIFICATIONS JTEK Solutions Group, LLC Jared Chevraux (330) 323-0943 www.jtekgroup.com

EDUCATION SERVICES Jason’s Place Melissa Hadnett (234) 714-9815 Facebook

NON-PROFIT GentleBrook Francie Kell (330) 877-7700 www.gentlebrook.org

EQUESTRIAN CENTER Pegasus Farm Shelley Sprang (330) 935-2300 www.pegasusfarm.org

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION GiGi’s Playhouse Canton Megan Vance (330) 493-9114 www.gigisplayhouse.org/canton

HOME BUILDER Charis Homes Glenna Wilson (330) 833-4527 www.charishomes.com

PERSONAL LEGACY PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT The Preferred Legacy Trust Company Tiffany Rockstroh (330) 209-9229 www.preferredlegacy.com

ANIMAL FENCE/TRAINING DogWatch of Northeast Ohio Donnie Myers (330) 915-6036 www.dogwatchneo.com CHURCH The Chapel Green Amy Troyer (330) 315-5501 www.facebook.com/greenspecialneeds COFFEE CAFE Whole Latte Love Cafe Beth Humbert (234) 360-2233 www.wholelattelovecafe.org COUNTY DISABILITIES BOARD Stark Board of Developmental Disabilities Lisa Parramore (330) 479-3934 www.starkdd.org

8

June 2022

HOME CARE SERVICES SafeInHome - Ohio (740) 207-5800 www.safeinhome.com INDEPENDENT PRIVATE SCHOOL Wings of Change Therapy Inc Erica Myers (234) 334-0044 www.wingsofchangetherapyinc.com INSURANCE AGENT American Family - Richard Corns Haley Seifert (234) 714-2300

PRIVATE SCHOOL The Golden Key Center for Exceptional Children Gina Bannevich (330) 493-4400 www.goldenkeyschool.com REAL ESTATE AGENT Tara Nelson Keller Williams Chervenic Realty Tara Nelson (330) 899-1644 www.taranelson.kw.com

REALTOR® eXp Realty : The Amy Wengerd Group Amy Wengerd (330) 681-6090 www.amysguarantee.com

RESTORATION & CLEANING Brahlers Cleaning & Restoration Stacy Ignacio (330) 834-0008 www.brahlerscrr.com

THEATRE Canton Palace Theatre Laura Strader (330) 454-8172 www.cantonpalacetheatre.org

SUPPORT GROUP Sharing Solutions www.sharingsolutions.info

TRANSPORTATION PROVIDER CLEARVIEW DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES Dean Miller (330) 224-4403 Facebook

BRING DESIGN & STYLE TO YOUR HOME ACCESS PROJECT Experts in Accessible Remodeling and Mobility Equipment since 2011

Come visit our Award Winning Showroom at 950 S. Main St. - North Canton | 330.526.6009 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Evenings & Weekends by appointment

OUR SERVICES

Stairlifts – Straight and Curved Barrier Free Showers Ceiling Track Lift Systems Wheelchair Platform Lifts

Walk-in Tubs & Transition Tubs Ramps (for sale or rent) Grab Bars & Handrails

Pool Lifts Accessible Remodeling & Additions Interior Design for Mobility Consulting Services

Medicaid Waiver Providers • www.jtekgroup.com • See our latest projects @jtekgroup

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

9

Meet Your Akron/Canton Special Needs Living TEAM

Rick Miller Owner

Mike Sturdivant Content Director

Joy Brown Publishing Assistant

Andrea Hurr Writer

Deborah Riley Writer

Melissa Klatt Writer

Sarah Smith Writer

Malcolm Porter Photographer

Michelle Herdlick Photographer

Dave Keller Client Concierge

Shelley Harkness Scheduling Assistant

Special Needs Living

June Issue Contributors

Sara Heckert

Kylie Zehnder

James Warnken

Jackie Shaw

DISCLAIMER: Articles and advertisements in this publication and opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a N2 Publishing or any homeowners association, but remain solely those of the author(s) or advertiser(s). The paid advertisements contained within this magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2 or any homeowners association but remain solely those of the author(s) or advertiser(s).

10

June 2022

Joe Albert

parent perspective

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO BE A

SPECIAL NEEDS PARENT?

An unfiltered, transparent, and raw view of this amazing journey shared by so many

By Kylie Zehnder Photography By Maria Ann Photography

When I’m asked what it is like to be a special needs parent, I always try to give a “glass half full” type of answer. People like hearing a happy and encouraging answer. While it can truly be a magical life, the reality is that it can also be so incredibly hard, heartbreaking, and soul-crushing.

When you receive a diagnosis, no matter how big or small, it’s earth-shattering. Your world flips upside down as you learn to navigate through the waters that you’ve newly entered. All the terminology, the medications, and the specialist, it’s all so much.

The typical world as you know it has changed. In the beginning, you grieve, and that’s okay! You’re allowed.

ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH EMPLOYMENT

Ohio Employment First Program

Job Development Job Coaching Community Based Assessments Career Exploration Follow Along Services Travel Training

What is it like to be a special needs parent? It’s painful! It is the hardest job in the world. When you must sit and watch as your child screams for help as medical professionals poke them, it hurts! When you have to hold their arms and legs down to perform procedures, it hurts. When you see fear in your child’s eyes, and there is nothing that you can do, it hurts. When surgery, tubes, wires, and devices are placed on and in your child, it hurts. IT HURTS!!!! As a special needs parent, you grieve during moments like these, and that’s okay!

What is it like to be a special needs parent? You watch as everyone else’s kid makes friends and has sleepovers, but your kiddo has to miss out. You are the best friend most days. Anxiety attacks hit, and you find yourself holding your baby tight as they struggle to push through it all. In moments of weakness, you hear your loudest thoughts. “Why her? Why this? Why me?”. These questions are usually followed by silent tears that gracefully wash away in the running water of the shower. Moments like these hurt. You grieve in moments like these, and that’s okay!

The grieving process takes hold of you every so often, but it doesn’t always last. Allowing moments of weakness to shine through allows the bear inside of you to grow stronger. With weakness comes strength, and an ounce of strength allows you to move mountains. There can be beauty in sorrow. Being a special needs parent can hurt. It can truly hurt, and that’s okay!

Contact us TODAY to learn more: 330-388-5778 independentemploy.com

malcolm@independentemploy.com

With love, Kylie Zehnder Another Special Needs Parent Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

11

G rady!

Grady!

MEET

THE STORY ABOUT 12-YEAR-OLD GRADY BENDER, A FIFTH-GRADER FROM COPLEYFAIRLAWN MIDDLE SCHOOL WHO IS CHANGING THE WORLD.

12

June 2022

cover story Written by Melissa Klatt Photography by Michelle Herdlick

Grady, Everly and Cooper

Grady and Family: Mom (Elaine), Dad (Tim), Brother (Cooper) and Sister (Everly)

Grady and Mom

Grady loves to be around his peers, but they also need to be around Grady!

GRADY’S DIAGNOSIS

INSPIRATION FOR A POWERFUL STORY

Grady was diagnosed at 1 week old with Down syndrome, since none of the tests during his mom’s pregnancy indicated any cause for concern. Being that he was on the smaller side, they made the decision to deliver early.

“I loved seeing little ‘miracles’ in my son that parents of typical kids might take for granted as just expected,” she reflects. “As Christians, we believe he has no limitations.”

Since his birth, Grady was monitored through his regular doctor visits, progressed with recorded milestones, and completed various therapies (physical, occupational, and speech). He was in the Help Me Grow program until age 3, a program that provides support to families with new babies and young children. From there, he was able to participate in the integrated preschool through the Summit County Developmental Disabilities.

He’s been through a lot throughout his years: lots of doctor appointments, bloodwork, therapy appointments, glasses, orthotics for his feet, and intervention for school. However, he’s here for a mighty purpose.

Grady’s story, their Christian upbringing, and the love they share inspired her to write a book titled I AM EXCEPTIONAL. The story is Christian-based and shows how God sees someone who may appear to have limits.

“Children with special needs can teach you a lot about patience, kindness, and forgiveness — gifts that the world needs,” says Elaine.

THE REAL MVP: GRADY! Since 2017, Grady has been playing baseball and loves it! He’s been involved with activities such as Challenger baseball, Empower basketball, Special Olympics, and FCA all-abilities camp. Grady and his family love the social and physical aspects of sports, but the community is what makes it worthwhile. Everyone at the events cheers the kids on to show their love and support!

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

13

Grady and Everly

ELAINE SHARES A TREASURED MEMORY OF GRADY DURING HIS FIRST SPECIAL OLYMPICS: “The first time his class participated in the Special Olympics, the school made ribbons for all of the students that lined the hallway. Even better was the day of the event! All of the teachers and students went to the gym to ‘send them off.’ They announced each student, and everyone cheered and held up posters as they came in. Grady was such a ham that he ran in blowing kisses like he was on a TV show!”

ELAINE’S ADVICE TO OTHER FAMILIES IN THE SPECIAL NEEDS COMMUNITY: “Things are hard sometimes, and many people will not understand, but you are not alone. Find out about organizations in your community and meet other parents. There are so many valuable resources available. It’s okay to ask for help, and when you do, you will meet some of the most amazing people that just want the best for your child too. Don’t be afraid to question or stand up for changes needed to support your child. You know your child best and are their best advocate. You are doing a great job!”

14

June 2022

Grady and Cooper

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

15

­

16

June 2022

P E R C E P T I O N

O F

DISA BI LIT Y achievement while challenged

By James Warnken

a student, and a professional. I started to realize that everyone faces challenges, barriers, and conflicts in their day-to-day lives, and they each require unique solutions based on what works best for them. The tough part among people with disabilities is that one solution that works for someone may not work for others with the same disability.

A STORY OF ACCOMPLISHMENT FOLLOWING A PROGRESSIVE VISUAL DISABILITY DIAGNOSIS My name is James Warnken, and I have lived with a visual disability for fifteen years. At 9 years old, my life changed, not for good and not for worse. I was diagnosed with a progressive visual disability called “genetic retinal dystrophy.” I vividly remember sitting in the eye doctor’s office when they told my mom I was losing my vision at a fast rate. Now that I am 24, soon to be 25, I realize she was not solely upset by what she was told. She was upset because she knew what was in store for me as I grew up, the challenges, the questions, the frustration, and the fact that I would be viewed as different. Despite having to move schools to get the right accommodations, testing in a separate classroom, and having papers twice the size of everyone else, my spirit never shook nor broke.

As I got older, I began to hide my disability to try and fit in and seem like all of my peers. Looking back, that was a terrible decision that led to me losing touch with who I was as a person,

A proactive mindset and determination go a long way.

Through my own experiences, I have gone against the grain to show the world what I am capable of regardless of my vision. I skateboard, play basketball, draw, and work as a digital marketing and accessibility specialist in the tech space. Nearly everything I do has been advised against by eye doctors, especially skateboarding. While I do not consider myself the most adventurous and rebellious, I give 110% to everything I do. If I had advice for anyone, regardless of ability, it would be to set goals and chase them no matter what. If you believe it can be achieved, then you have the potential to make it a reality.

Since graduating college, my entire perspective around disabilities has changed. This is primarily due to mentorship from some incredible individuals in Mike Calvo, Natalie Hadley, Mike Hess, Cara Khan, Laurie Moline, and the entire Apex Communications Network team.

Today, I am shifting slightly away from the marketing world by adding digital accessibility to my skill set in an effort to do my part in making the world more accessible to people with disabilities. Being someone with a tech background, a permanent disability, and a ton of energy, I will make an impact.

James has had a visual disability for 15 years. He specializes in search engine optimization and data analytics in the marketing and online accessibility space. James currently holds the position of chief technology officer of Apex Communications Network.

Apex is a family of scrappy innovators dedicated to driving revenue growth for businesses by leveraging unparalleled storytelling, cutting-edge technologies, and design thinking psychology.

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

17

non-profit organization spotlight

GiGi’s Playhouse:

Down Syndrome Achievement Center A TRUE GIFT TO THE STARK/SUMMIT COUNTY COMMUNITY

By Sarah Smith

“Acceptance to us means love. When you have a special needs child, your first thought is, ‘will anyone receive and accept our child? Will people embrace and give him a chance?’ and we have been very blessed to know that so far, 99.9% of people have accepted and loved our son. It means he gets a chance that everyone else gets. It means he gets the same opportunities.”

• Jonathan and Shirley Mitchell, parents of Jesse, who has Down syndrome With over 55 locations in the United States, GiGi’s Playhouse’s mission is to change the way the world views Down syndrome, where individuals with Down syndrome are accepted and embraced in their families, schools, and communities.

18

June 2022

In 2017, a group of impassioned parents and individuals formed a start-up team with the goal of opening a GiGi’s Playhouse in the Canton/Akron area. After demonstrating the commitment and need in the community, the Canton location was approved by the national non-profit organization to open an affiliate to serve the community. The team’s dream became a reality when GiGi’s Playhouse Canton opened on April 28, 2019, as the 44th Playhouse to open nationwide and the second one in Ohio.

“GiGi’s Playhouse Canton is fulfilling the dream of the Down syndrome community of having a location where individuals with Down syndrome of all ages have a place to call their own, where they feel safe and can explore their abilities through proven programs with support and celebration,” explained

Megan Vance, site manager. “Parents no longer feel the anxiety of finding a place where their loved one will be unconditionally accepted. Each participant will grow with the programs at their own pace and interact with their peers in an environment of celebration and achievement. No matter the age, individuals with Down syndrome will be offered the opportunity to grow their knowledge and skills. Families will experience support and learn that they are not alone and are part of an amazing community that appreciates the joys and highlights the positive.”

GiGi’s Playhouse is the only international network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers. Every day, GiGi’s Playhouse changes lives by providing 100% free, life-changing therapeutic, educational, and career training programs for individuals of all ages.

From prenatal diagnosis to adulthood, GiGi’s makes a lifetime commitment to families. GiGi’s helps maximize opportunities for daily achievement and lasting acceptance. The organization also helps advance a vital social impact goal by showing the world what individuals with Down syndrome can achieve as students, co-workers, volunteers, friends, and valued members of their communities.

“When my daughter Monroe was born in 2015 with Down syndrome, I was given a book that had a copyright date in the 80s and an email address for an organization that no longer existed.

I really was looking for a ‘place’ and people in front of me to help me navigate what I needed to do with this little girl,” said Christina Ziga-Budd, past president of GiGi’s Playhouse Canton.

“I came across GiGi’s Playhouse and knew we needed this in our area. Once our team was established and GiGi’s Canton became a reality, it really impacted me how our communities need resources and opportunities like what GiGi’s provides. It is so much more than our programming; it is connections, relationships, and a physical place that makes it special. The relationships I have built from GiGi’s Playhouse Canton are lifelong connections that make our family better. I am an educator that naturally advocates for kids, but I never thought I would love it as much as I do now that I have GiGi’s Playhouse in my community.”

GiGi’s Playhouse Canton has 10 board members, serves nearly 200 families, and has had nearly 400 volunteers walk through the

doors. The best way to support GiGi’s is through volunteering, following the organization on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and by donating by making a one-time donation, becoming a 321 Champion and donating $21 monthly, and by viewing the wish list at www.gigisplayhouse.org/canton.

“My daughter, Maleah, loves coming to GiGi’s Playhouse for Leaps and Bounds, Kids Club, one-on-one math tutoring, and all of the other fun parties and activities they have for the entire family,” Stacy Jackson, board president, exclaimed. “She is accepted, loved, and celebrated at GiGi’s. I am humbled by the incredible volunteers who give their time and talents to help my daughter and the other participants at GiGi’s.”

Each year, GiGi’s Playhouse grants esteemed awards and certificates that recognize achievements within the network of Playhouses across North America. The Canton Playhouse’s achievements for 2021 are: 1. Center of Excellence 2.Board Health and Strategy 3. Strong • Marketing • Operations and Facility • Data and Donation Processing • HR and Volunteer Management For more information about the programs and events offered and ways to support, donate, and volunteer, please visit www.gigisplayhouse.com/canton, call 330-493-9114, or email canton@gigisplayhouse.org. GiGi’s Playhouse is located at 4061 Bradley Circle NW Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

19

community impact q&a

Q

QUESTION and ANSWER session with a COMMUNITY RESOURCE Jackie Shaw, Summit County Board of DD Question: Where do you work currently?

Answer: Summit County Board of DD Q: What is your job title here?

A: SSA Supervisor Q: How long have you been employed in your current job?

A: Just surpassed five years last month!

Q: How long have you been employed in this industry?

A: Eight years in the DD field. Fourteen years in the human services field Q: What do your day-to-day job responsibilities include?

A: I am here to support my staff and the people and families they are working with. My staff and I are specialized in working with youth with disabilities which is a typical age range of 3-22. I work together with them to come up with solutions to complex problems that don’t necessarily fit in the box of our normal service model. We work with other agencies and resources within the community to link up youth and their families to them. We have a strong focus on employment and supporting

20

June 2022

the transition into adulthood. Our main objectives are always to find ways to support youth within their homes and ways to support them in community inclusion. I love getting the opportunity to help my staff think outside the box and try new things, such as supporting youth with technology through cameras, alarms, and sensors that would allow them to be home alone after school for a few hours or by finding ways that get a child or youth out and into a community activity or class with peers by use of adaptive equipment such as picture instructions or devices to read materials out loud for them.

Q: What is the inspiration behind why you work in this field?

A: This is an easy one … it is the people. It is the children and youth that I get to interact with, their families, teachers, friends, etc. Watching them make decisions, work through problems, and share in their accomplishments, getting to see them grow and gain independence. Hearing the excitement in someone’s voice when they call to say they got a job or seeing their face light up when a specialized spoon is assisting them to eat by

themselves. It is the staff that I am supporting and getting to watch the joy that they get from what they do and seeing their passion and drive in action. It is my agency itself, as this is one of the most supportive environments I have ever worked in. Not many people wake up every day loving what they do, but I do, and it is thanks to everyone I get to interact with.

Q: What part of your job are you most passionate about?

A: Learning new things. I love that I always am presented with opportunities to learn and grow. I then have the ability to pass that information on to my team to help them gain knowledge and have new ways to problem-solve. I am currently enjoying learning about assistive technology and adaptive equipment so that I can pass this knowledge on to my team and start implementing it into the lives of others. I recently have gotten to witness a teen find some independence again from something as simple as a stylus that hooks onto their arm, allowing them to utilize their phone on their own and giving them some privacy back.

Q: Do you feel like you’re making a difference in your job and why?

Q

Q: What is your favorite non-profit organization or volunteer opportunity?

A: When I think of local and non-profits, the first one that comes to mind as a favorite is the Josette Beddell Memorial Foundation. This non-profit is special to me for very personal reasons, and I would invite everyone to follow them on social media and check out the awesome events they do throughout the year. The second is always the Humane Society of Summit County. Anyone that knows me knows that I have three dogs who have all been rescued, and I would love nothing more than to see all the animals in need have a loving family to call their own!

A: Yes. I feel like the work I do every day leads not only my staff but the people and families they are working with to live more independent and successful lives. I get to help find ways to support my staff to work on and obtain their goals, as well as help them come up with ways to support the people they are working with to obtain their goals. I get to see everyone’s successes and progress every day, and it is always rewarding.

Q: What advice would you give to parents in your field to help navigate?

A: Allow your youth to have the dignity of risk. Allow your son or daughter to take reasonable risks to help build their self-esteem and give them dignity. Most anyone you speak to can talk about a poor choice they made that they learned so much from or a risk that they took that got them where they are. I think it is SO important to still let your son or daughter take risks (when there isn’t a major health or safety concern posed) to allow them to learn and grow in the same ways you and I did.

Q: What is your favorite success story you have seen?

A: I see success all the time, but I think my favorite story is with a young adult I worked with who was not able to communicate at work due to language and cognition barriers. I was able to

put together a team of translators and SLPs to make a communication picture book for them. They had pages related to their job, their health, their family, and favorite activities.

Once presented with the book, they were very excited to start using it and forming relationships with their co-workers. When they got familiar with it, we were able to move it to an IPad application, and it started to prove useful at home, at the doctor’s office, and in the community for self-advocacy. They were finally able to express what they needed or wanted, and it was understood.

Q: If you could go back and talk to yourself at the beginning of your career, what advice would you give yourself?

A: Don’t overthink things.

Sometimes all someone wants is the simplest form of help. Start small and build on the little successes.

WE KNOW HOW ESSENTIAL YOUR PERSONAL MOBILITY DEVICES ARE TO YOUR LIFE

That's why we insure them!

CHOOSE THE COVERAGE THAT MEETS YOUR NEEDS: Personal Mobility Device Coverage Covers you anywhere on or off the road for:

Call Richard Corns TODAY for more information!

office: 234-714-2300 cell: 330-413-6986 rcorns@amfam.com

• Bodily Injury • Property Damage • Medical Payments • Uninsured Motorist • Underinsured Motorist • Comprehensive • Collision Premiums range from $30-$100 annually.

Equipment Breakdown Coverage Available for home, condo, or renters and covers mobility devices and motorized chair lifts from mechanical breakdown, electrical breakdown, or power surge.

Premiums: Renters policy - $20 annually | Home policy - $40 annually

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

21

SUPPORTING THE SPECIAL NEEDS COMMUNITY NURTURING SKILLS THAT FOSTER INDEPENDENCE AND EMPOWER ALL TO LIVE THEIR BEST LIVES

By Melissa Klatt

It’s spring, and you know what that means! Now is the prime season to mow your lawn to enjoy your outdoor entertaining space. However, when you can’t do the labor or don’t have the time for the laundry list of landscaping tasks, the best thing you can do is call in the pros–TWiG! LANDSCAPING SUPPORTING A CAUSE

TWiG (The Workshops inc Groundskeeping) started serving Stark County in 2010 with a goal to help nurture working skills within adults of the special needs community. As a business of TWi, they take pride in their mentorship and paid work opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

To date, they’ve employed over 100 adults, with crews averaging about ten folks a year!

TWiG works with individuals and groups, most starting within group scenarios and ending up independently employed. In fact, 40% of the 2021 TWiG crew is independently employed within the community! They assess every person to help them grow skills both within the realm of landscaping maintenance and outside of it, earning a paycheck in the process. A lot of the skills employees develop (time management, effective communication, organization, and professional empowerment) are transferable should they decide on a different career path.

CUSTOMERS THRILLED WITH TWIG’S WORK

These customers are thrilled with the work TWiG’s done for them: “Very professional and friendly — great customer service. They got an estimate to

22

June 2022

us right away. The cost is reasonable, and we are happy with the services provided. I recommend them!!” Norma M., Canton.

“The individuals on the crew arrived ready to work. The supervisor showed them the job to be done, and they went about their way in a direct fashion. Two hours later, they were done and off to their next job. Very nice work.” -Ann D., Canton “They do an excellent job. For me, it was really a relief that I did not have to worry about mowing my grass the entire summer. I will use them again this year.” - Sue B., North Canton.

GET INVOLVED WITH TWIG

There are two ways you can support TWiG: 1. Become a new customer! TWiG is still accepting customers for the 2022 season, so make sure to support their organization. You can request a free estimate by calling (330) 484-9032 or visiting them online.

2. Like and follow them on Facebook: @TWiGbyTWi

FOR ANY INTERESTED ADULTS

with developmental disabilities searching for a paid work opportunity with TWiG, first, contact your service and support administrator at your county’s board of developmental disabilities to set up a meeting with TWiG.

Sharing Solutions IDD Support Group for Families, Caregivers & Professionals

Building Bridges - Making Connections Supporting IDD individuals, families, and community professionals during the high school transition years into adulthood and beyond. Together we learn about a variety of topics from how to apply for benefits, special needs trusts, employment dd waivers, and more. We are here to productively discuss topics of interest and help individuals navigate the system.

Everyone is encouraged to play an active role in sharing their resources, knowledge, and experiences. We invite you to join us!

Next Group Meeting August 15th

5:00p - Social Hour 6:00p - Meeting

Walthers Twin Tavern 430 Applegrove St NW North Canton, OH 44720

Find us on Facebook!

Building Skills.

Fostering Relationships.

Changing Lives.

Join our monthly meetings and receive email reminders! jodi@sharingsolutions.info • www.sharingsolutions.info

We seek to provide every child with autism an individualized program that employs the research-based methodologies of Applied Behavior Analysis.

Don't Let The Cleaning Get The Better Of You

We are here to help!

we restore beauty We know life is busy. Let us help with all your cleaning needs!

We can handle: House Cleaning | Carpet/Upholstery Cleaning | Mattress Cleaning | Spot Cleaning | Routine Cleaning | One Time Cleaning | Emergency Cleaning | Covid or Other Illness Cleaning Other Indoor Cleaning | And More!

330-834-0008 1929 9th Street SW Massillon, Ohio 44647

info@brahlerscrr.com

AUTISM SCHOLARSHIP, MAJOR INSURANCES, AND OHIO MEDICAID PLANS ACCEPTED!

Call TODAY

g ptin hip e c ac lars Now Scho s for ion ism Aut plicat /2023 ap 2022 ar! the ool ye sch

to lean more!

330-309-3133

www.appliedbehavioralconnections.com info@appliedbehavioralconnections.com Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

23

community employment success story

By Deborah Riley

This Is

MAX! Meeting Max will undoubtedly make your day better

If you’ve ever frequented Carlo’s Trattoria Italian Restaurant in Hartville or Walther’s Twin Tavern in North Canton, then perhaps you’ve had the opportunity to meet Maximilian “Max” Broom.

Max graduated from GlenOak High School in 2011. Upon graduation, he attended the Stark ESC Transition Program at Lake High School. Through the transition job skills program, Max began working at Carlo’s Trattoria. Within six months of participating in the program, Max was asked to join the staff at Carlo’s as a regular employee. On May 3, 2022, Max celebrated 10 years of employment with Carlo’s Trattoria!

In 2015 Max worked with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities provider Creative Rehab to obtain additional employment.

Through the job development process with Creative Rehab, Max was able to find a position at Bob Evans in Belden Village. Max worked at Bob Evans until June of 2017 when he left to go to work at Walther’s Twin Tavern, which is run by family friends. This month, Max will celebrate five years at Walther’s. Max is one of Walther’s original employees and has worked at the restaurant since it opened.

While at Carlo’s Trattoria, you can find Max at the host stand greeting and seating

24

June 2022

customers, bussing tables, assisting with orders in the kitchen, and helping out wherever he is needed. At Walther’s Twin Tavern, Max can be found washing dishes, bussing tables, and assisting in the dining room. Max is a people person and enjoys talking to all of the customers, especially the “regulars.” His coworkers are what make it so fun to go to work; he says they are friendly and keep him laughing. Max’s coworkers feel the same way about him! Max’s supervisors, Tana and Abby, shared that Max is always in a great mood, a hard worker, always punctual, and is well-loved by all! Having autism can sometimes create challenges with communication and maintaining eye contact, but Max uses his employment as a way to work on these challenges and doesn’t let them get in the way. Max maintains a positive attitude, and both of his supervisors share that Max is never in a bad mood. He is always ready to work and take on any task he is given.

Stop on out to Carlo’s Trattoria Italian Restaurant or to Walther’s Twin Tavern and come say hi to Max! He loves to talk about sports if you have the time, especially basketball. While you’re at Carlo’s, give the pizza a try. According to Max, it’s the best pizza around!

employment spotlight q&a

KADE CARTER: BUILDING A RESUME AND A FUTURE!

Question: Where are you from?

Answer: Akron Q: Where do you currently work?

A: Guys Party Center, The Boat House Café, and the Iron Grill Q: What is your position at work?

A: Dishwasher Q: What is your favorite part of your job?

A: Doing what is asked of me by my manager. I have a job to do when I am at work.

Q: What are your goals as you participate in your training program?

A: To build a work history so I can move up to another job in the future!

Q: How long have you been working there?

A: Two years!

Q: What is your dream job?

A: To be a fireman on the TV show Chicago Fire

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

25

Allow Us to Introduce You to THE

COLE JAUMAN A thriving example of finding comfort and encouragement through sports

By Andrea Hurr

26

June 2022

Senior at Tuslaw High School, Cole Jauman is in most ways a typical 18-year-old young man.

He loves pepperoni pizza, sports, playing video games, and the color blue. Typical, however, is not how his life is characterized and thanks to the support of his parents and various programs throughout his years at school, being considered typical is a great thing.

Cole was nonverbal until the age of 4, when his family finally received the diagnosis of high functioning autism (HFA). There is a wide range of how people on the autism spectrum handle how they do with school and work; some do very well, while others get overwhelmed and cannot concentrate.

Cole struggled through school and had to learn how to overcome many obstacles and challenges, especially as the subject matter got harder and harder. Individuals with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) frequently struggle with social skills. In his senior year of school, Cole was the opposite of that while thriving socially. He was selected as team manager for his varsity basketball team and had much success on the football field with his teammates. He was even chosen as Homecoming King! While HFA can be considered mild, people with it can struggle significantly. Some individuals may appear neurotypical or not need the same level of support as people with more severe autism do; however it can still have a major impact on their daily lives.

Due to his HFA diagnosis, Cole had access to speech and occupational therapies through the eighth grade. He was also fortunate enough to receive the assistance of a paraprofessional aide at school through sixth grade.

Once he got to high school, the obstacles and challenges of daily life at school became very difficult. He had great anxiety, being worried that he would not be able to pass his classes and move up to the next grade level with his friends. It was a lot for him to comprehend all his subjects all at once. Cole says that his resource teachers taught him how to compartmentalize and take one subject assignment at a time and then prioritize the subjects that needed to be done first. He would attend his resource/IEP class and learn how to itemize the subjects and assignments, and then he could do it on his own and stay in study halls with his peers and friends. He credits his success with that to his classmates and friends

who “would always encourage me and talk positively to calm me down as well.” They would say, “Cole, you can do this!” or “you got this!” which helped him a lot. “Those phone calls and FaceTimes mean a lot to me,” he says. “Helped me to get through high school on bad days.”

Making strides in his schoolwork, Cole was also enjoying sports, with football being his favorite. He started playing in the eighth grade and said he has had the best experiences while playing. Cole says that his coaches and teammates have been amazing.

“Football is like a huge family. From the Friday night atmosphere, all the fans, student section cheering, playing under the lights— it’s Friday night!” A couple of highlights for him during his football career were when he scored a two-point conversion in his freshman year and a touchdown in his junior year.

Cole started playing basketball his freshman year because of the encouragement from his friends, who pushed him to play. In his senior year, he was the team manager and really enjoyed that role. During senior night, he got to start with the other four seniors on the team, and he made the first two points of the game and the last two points by way of a layup “with a great assist from my friend Ty (senior), and we will have that memory for the rest of our lives.”

The comradery from sports and his coaches helped him with more than just sports.

They have had a lasting impact on Cole, and he listed both his head football coach and basketball coach as someone he admires. He credits Coach Gulling (head football coach) for making him a great person on and off of the field. He said that his coach would always tell him to be a positive role model and good team leader. Cole says Coach Gulling was very supportive of him. Basketball coach Wolford taught Cole how to play basketball and was always there for him and the team no matter what. His motto was “Attitude in the Altitude”-”fight for the boards and finish it.”

Cole is also very thankful for great parents.

He says they are very caring and encouraging throughout his life. They are always cheering him and his teammates on and always willing to help wherever it’s needed. Once Cole graduates, his plan is to go into a work program so

he can find out what really interests him and then excel in that work field.

His advice for others in the special needs community is to be positive, even when you’re having a rough day. “Positive thoughts will get you through those rough days.” He also says to be supportive of others: “We need to support each other. Without the support of my friends, family, and teachers, it would have made bad days even tougher. So if you see someone having a rough day, let them know you are there for them, and it will get better. That goes a long way; it did for me!” What great advice, Cole!

He wanted to end this article by saying, “Thanks for the opportunity to tell you about myself. Hopefully, this will help someone that is struggling through school. Just be positive and make a difference! You matter!”

Thank you, Cole, and know that you have made a difference in more people’s lives than you will ever know.

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

27

resource guide

COMMUNITY RESOURCES SOMETIMES, WHO TO CALL IS THE BIGGEST QUESTION!

We want to utilize the Special Needs Living platform to share and introduce community resources to families and individuals within the Akron/Canton special needs community.

Our goal is to be a source for you to find safe, trusted, and proven providers of products, services, and ideas that bring impact to you. We will look to accomplish this by passing along recommendations generated through organic community referrals of trusted members of your family’s network of go-to people, companies, and organizations.

In the meantime, please share with us the go-to resources that you feel would help someone else. Thank you for your submissions and your commitment to helping others. You can share a recommendation by scanning this QR code or following the link directly.

Look for us to introduce this communityrecommended resource guide in one of the next few issues

28

June 2022

Celebrate Our Differences With A Cup Of Java, Endless Smiles And Contagious Joy

JUNE SPECIALTY DRINK:

AFFOGATO FRAPPE

Stop by, you'll be glad you did!

Monday-Friday 8:30am – 4:00pm Saturday 8:30am – 2:30pm

1308 South Main St. • North Canton, OH 44720

cafe@wholelattelovecafe.org 234-360-CAFE (2233)

We Serve...

Hot Beverages that Warm the Soul such as: Fresh Brewed Coffees • Expressos • Lattes • Cappuccinos • Hot Teas London Fog Earl Grey Lattes • Hot Chocolates • And More!

Special thanks to Cold Beverages that Refresh Your Spirit such as: Charis Homes and Stark Flavor Cold Brews •Black Iced Teas • Iced Chai Lattes • Iced Lattes for supporting Whole Latte Love Cafe Iced Mochas • Frappes • Smoothies • And More! and for sponsoring this ad!

Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks such as: Oatmeal • Bagels with Cream Cheese • Yogurt Parfaits • Muffins Saldas • Soups • Hummus & Veggies • Cookies • Brownies • And More!

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

29

MEET THE

AMY WENGERD

GROUP

FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit www.amysguarantee.com, call 330-681-6090, or email amy@ soldbywenderd.com. The company is located at 4678 Munson St. NW Canton, 44718.

30

June 2022

sponsor spotlight

By Sarah Smith

FAST, SIMPLE, CREATIVE REAL ESTATE EXPERTS

T

he Amy Wengerd Group/ eXP Realty is a residential real estate company serving Stark, Summit, and surrounding counties.

The company consults with clients on their best options as well as coordinates timing to make sure clients are maximizing their value when selling and saving the most money possible when buying. The REALTORS® also assist in relocation into and out of Ohio and offer any help needed regarding buying or selling real estate.

“One thing that sets us apart is our creativity in any market,” said Amy Wengerd, owner and REALTOR®.

“When houses were taking six months to sell, we created a guaranteed sale program, where we would buy the house from our clients if we couldn’t sell it in 59 days. In this current market, that isn’t needed, but there are other needs. So, now we offer a buy before you sell program, which allows people to retrieve all the equity from their current house, make a non-contingent offer on their new home, and it allows them to stay in their current house, so they don’t have to make a double move. We have other programs and options as well, but our focus is to make sure we are providing creative options for our clients no matter the market.”

The company has a passion for charitable giving, and it’s one of the pillars of the business. The Amy Wengerd Group has supported national foundations such as Make-a-Wish and Children’s Miracle Network and Ohio organizations such as NEOP, which support local military families, as well as neighborhood charities and nonprofits such as Gwen’s House and Simply Give. In 2020, the company gave $10,000 to

NEOPAT by setting aside $25 every time they closed on a home. In March of 2022, the company was recognized as a Silver Sponsor at Gigi’s Playhouse.

“I honestly never saw myself as a ‘salesperson’ but knew I wanted a career that would be fulfilling, rewarding, and somehow give back to those who need help,” Wengerd explained. “Not having the most ideal home life growing up, I found myself at age 18 living on my own and working two jobs. I was thankful for those jobs and have no regrets, but I knew I needed to find something more substantial that could provide fulfillment and security. I was introduced to a veteran REALTOR® in 1995 who gave me the pros and cons of real estate and explained how it works. It was daunting to think that, as a young person who had never owned a home, I could somehow guide people with their home sales and purchases. It was definitely a challenge, and that part was intriguing to me.”

Wengerd has had her real estate license since 1998, and the team was established in 2012. The company now has 10 employees and 11 agents.

“We have so many great agents and employees, but I think it’s really special that I get to work with a lot of my family as well,” Wengerd added. “My husband, Joe, is one of our salespeople and helps run the company. Our oldest son, Jake, oversees all of our new listing inventory; our middle son, Tommy, is our courier; my sister-in-law is our sales manager; and my cousin, Mikol, is an agent with us as well. It’s really cool to have started something that now my family can make a living from. That, along with giving back to the community, makes this business even more special!”

We just sold our home with Amy Wengerd Group and are so happy with the whole experience. The entire team was knowledgeable and helpful, and the sale was seamless from beginning to end. Our home wasn’t even officially on the market, and they found a buyer for us through the coming soon program!” exclaimed Heather T. Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

31

Suppor�ng Individuals With Down Syndrome, Their Families And The Community

Scan to create a "My GiGi's" account online to register for events and see what events match your interests!

Programming is always FREE! (330) 493-9114 canton@gigisplayhouse.org gigisplayhouse.org/canton 4061 Bradley Circle NW, Canton, Ohio 44718

Programing is always FREE! Special Thanks to John Weston and Five Arrows Technology for supporting GiGi's Playhouse and for sponsoring this ad!

32

June 2022

parent perspective

By Sara Heckert

A COUNTERTOP OVERFLOWING WITH

Hairbows, Socks, Bandaids, and Cheerios MUSINGS FROM A REAL SPECIAL NEEDS HOUSEWIFE OF STARK COUNTY JUST ANOTHER DAY

Ok, so I’m not technically a housewife, but I am a real-life special needs mom that really does live in Stark County! And although I’ve never actually seen any of those real housewife TV shows, I can promise our family has just as much wacky screen-worthy content to behold! Also, I’m not affluent. Nor have I undergone any drastic body-altering plastic surgeries. For full transparency, I did have my eyebrows tattooed on my face, but that’s because I have a thyroid disorder, not because I’m fancy.

I also have a very brave husband, two awesome teenage stepchildren, and two adopted daughters with Down syndrome.

Anyway … what is this little column supposed to be about!? Well, honest little nuggets of my real life. While my daughters are indeed precious gifts straight from the Lord that fill my life with joy and hair-bows, my house with squeals and socks, my countertops with IEPs and EOBs, my bed with band-aids and Cheerios, they also fill my brain with frustration at times.

Kids can be freaking hilarious and delightful until … they’re not.

For those of us journeying this special-needs life together, chin up. You’re not alone. This magazine is full of your people. Reach out. Connect with one another.

In the meantime, enjoy this little ditty I wrote a few years ago on World Down Syndrome Day:

No, you cannot have chips for breakfast.

Please get out of the oven.

Why is there a flashlight shining in the trashcan?

Please get Uncle Jay’s underwear off of your head.

Please don’t do everything your sister does.

Where are your socks?!

Why are you in your sister’s bed?

No, you cannot have pizza for breakfast.

No, you cannot have cookies for breakfast.

Please put the knife down.

No, you cannot drink Dad’s coffee.

Ok, fine, just a little bit.

Whatever, just put it in her sippy cup.

Please get off the kitchen table.

Where are your socks?!

Please step away from my new MacBook.

Please get that out of your mouth.

Well, ER doctor, she signs “yes” when asked if she swallowed a water bottle cap — that is why we’re here.

Please stop touching your sister.

Please stop touching your sister.

Please get out of the dishwasher.

Why is everything in our deep freezer thawed?!

No, you cannot drive Dad’s car.

Please stop pinching your brother.

Please get off Anna’s head.

Please don’t drown Ava in the bathtub.

Please stop knocking on grandma’s neighbor’s front door during a global pandemic.

Please stop non-verbally tattling on your sister.

Why are you bringing me ground turkey when I’m on the toilet?

WHERE ARE YOUR SOCKS?!!?

The world would be boring if we were all the same. Embrace uniqueness!

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

33

pictures say thousands of words

Photography By Joe Albert

Beauty Belongs to Everyone A story shared simply through images:

Meet Kasen Woodard

34

June 2022

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

35

All CONNECTING PEOPLE + COMMUNITY

Get To Know

WE HAVE TO OFFER

36

June 2022

SENIOR SERVICES

GentleBrook provides residential options for seniors looking to age in place.

The HomeStead:

Our 49 bed assisted living and memory care facility

GentleBrook fosters independence for individuals with intellectual

and/or developmental disabilities

by offering programs and services through our adult day programs

and residential support services, including residential waiver

The Villas:

Our independent living 55+ condominium community GentleBrook Corporate Office

880 Sunnyside SW

Hartville, Ohio 44632 330-877-7700

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES SERVICES GentleBrook serves the

services, and intermediate care facilities (ICF) in Hartville and

West Lafayette. In July of 2022,

GentleBrook will take over as the

provider of adult day services for the Holmes County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

gentlebrook.org

community through two businesses in Hartville.

GentleBrook Greenhouse + Farm:

GentleBrook Greenhouse + Farm has a wide selection of beautiful bedding plants, hanging baskets, house plants & succulents. Open to the public spring through fall.

The SportsPlex: An

indoor sports recreation center with a full basketball court and a 7,500 sq. ft. turfed multi-sport training facility for individual and team use.

GentleBrook is a not-for-profit social purpose enterprise that believes in connecting people + community through services and businesses.

We believe all human life is a sacred gift and most fulfilled in community with others.

Coming Fall 2022

Menlo Park, a 6-bed ICF

• Habilitation / Active Treatment and Adult Day Programs • Medical / Health Care Supports / Respite Services

• Home-like environment • Financial Oversight • Transportation

For more information, contact Sean McDonald Administrator, Hartville Meadows

330-877-3694 • smcdonald@gentlebrook.org

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

37

38

June 2022

The Unveiling of

ADAM DAVIS

FIGHTING FOR SOMEONE ELSE’S CAUSE, EVEN IN THE MIDST OF OUR OWN STORM! making an impact

By Andrea Hurr

Adam’s Approach: Just here to be my best with what has been dealt and to show others to build themselves up (mentally) and to knock blockades down. Also, to show love and support to our troops and soldiers around the world that are doing what is right. Adam’s Approach: Just here to be my best with what has been dealt and to show others to build themselves up (mentally) and to knock blockades down. Also, to show love and support to our troops and soldiers around the world that are doing what is right.

One definition of special needs is any form of various difficulties (such as a physical, emotional, behavioral, or learning disability or impairment) that causes an individual to require additional or specialized services or accommodations (such as in education or recreation). I know that a lot of people, myself included, may think of special needs as someone born with Down syndrome or autism. However, an often-overlooked area of special needs is people who have incurred injuries and are no longer functioning at the level they once were. This often requires years of intense therapies and enduring the frustrations of not being who or what they once were. Adjusting to life after a serious accident can seem next to impossible, but with a positive attitude and great support system, anything is truly possible.

Meet Adam Davis. Adam has special needs because he was in multiple motorcycle and car accidents; the last one, which happened in October 2010, left him in a coma for just over five weeks. He is truly lucky to be alive and has such an infectious positive spirit about him. Adam lost the use of his left arm, he has difficulties walking, and his speech was affected. He describes to me that the last big accident that left him in the coma slowed his rate of mentally thinking at first but then fueled a fire in him to never stop progressing forward (both mentally and physically).

After going through the health issues caused by his accidents, Adam made the decision that he wanted to do something positive to make a difference. He chose breast cancer as a cause he could support. Adam had his truck painted bright pink and had graphics added to it so that he could help raise awareness and offer support to those fighting this disease. When asked why he chose this as his mission, Adam said, “After my accident and what I went through, I asked myself what I could do to help others. I decided on breast cancer so that I could help provide support to those fighting the disease. I wanted them to know if I could go through what I did, they can win their fight as well.” Adam has taken his truck all over Ohio to various events and shows.

Adam has a great support system and credits a lot of his recovery to his friend Jason who took him to the gym many years ago thinking it may help, and it has tenfold. He works out every day and not only strengthens his body but strengthens his brain as well with learning and relearning things that were lost in the accident. Adam says his biggest challenge today is trying to move at a faster pace so he can accomplish more throughout the day.

He has also turned tragedy into triumph by using his positive spirit and

never quit attitude to write a small book of aphorisms called “Better…not Bitter.” He says he is just trying to be his best with what was dealt to him and “show others to build themselves up to knock blockades down.” He is thankful to so many that have helped him along this journey and continue to inspire him with patience, kindness, and support. He asked that we close his article out with one message he wants you to remember. “When faced with an immovable object, one must be a greater unstoppable force!”

Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

39

FINAL TAKE

JUNE ISSU E PHOTO FINISH Photos carefully selected by Mike Sturdivant

Grady Bender (Article on page 12)

The Amy Wengerd Group (Article on page 30)

TWiG Landscaping (Article on page 22)

Cole Jauman (Article on page 26)

GiGi’s Playhouse (Article on page 18)

LET'S FIND YOUR DREAM HOME Million Dollar Producer 2019, 2020 | Full Time Agent with eBiz, LSS, LSE, and LMS Designations | First Time Buyers Specialist Divorce Specialist | Certified Negotiation Expert

Specializing in Stark, Tuscarawas, Carroll, Summit, Portage, Cuyahoga, Lorain, Wayne, and Medina Counties & all surrounding Northeast Ohio Suburbs.

Kade Carter (Article on page 25)

Tara Nelson is a Proud Member of: • The National Association of Realtors • The Ohio Association of Realtors • The East Central Association of Realtors

Let's Talk TODAY! Tara Nelson - Realtor 330.371.3493 | Taranelson@kw.com Taranelson.kw.com

40

June 2022

The Woodard Family (Article on page 34)

Max Broom (Article on page 24)

Changing The World, One Child At A Time Therapeutic Day Center Combining Academics & Therapies for a Collaborative Approach

Wings of Change Therapy, Inc. provides therapeutic day programming for youth between the ages of 5 and 21.

Our therapeutic day program provides educational and therapeutic services to children of all ability levels. The licensed therapists work alongside the intervention specialists within the classrooms and provide individual therapy.

Meet Waffles the Therapy Dog!

OUR TEAM INCLUDES: - Intervention Specialists - Occupational Therapists - Speech and Language Pathologists - Physical Therapist - Educational Aides

Schedule A Tour TODAY! • 234-334-0044

John Peterson and Autism Scholarship Providers

jordye@wingsofchangetherapyinc.com • www.wingsofchangetherapyinc.com Akron & Canton Special Needs Living

41

5051 New Centre Dr Wilmington, NC 28403

A Social Publication for the Residents of Akron & Canton

Join Our Team!

REM Ohio is looking for compassionate and talented individuals like you to join our team!

Dependable and dedicated staff are needed to work with children who have intellectual and developmental disabilities in Tuscarawas County. We offer many fulfilling career opportunities and provide comprehensive rewards and benefits programs for our employees through the state. We want hard-working, passionate petiole like you to join us in our mission of building relationships and enhancing lives.

New Children's Home Opening Soon!

Apply TODAY! Jobs.sevitahealth.com (search Dover, OH) Jhuane Zebbs, Talent Acquisition Associate (866) 421-4031 Jhuane.zebbs@sevitahealth.com

Scan or go online to learn more! www.rem-oh.com