May/June 2017

A young man with Down syndrome sprays a fire truck with a hose. 0

Hewitt’s Heroes

Christian’s lifelong dream of joining the fire department takes center stage in League City’s groundbreaking “Hewitt’s Heroes” program—a beacon for special needs adults seeking meaningful inclusion through community service.

Woman hugging a child by a pool. 0

Pool Safely

Every parent knows the feeling of relief when a safety measure unexpectedly works. That close call with Jake reminded me how crucial even small precautions can be. I had installed that door alarm without thinking it might make the difference between safety and danger.

Sydney Opera House illuminated with colorful lights during Vivid Sydney. 0

Mommy’s Timeout: Vivid Sydney

Breathe deeply, let go of tension, and picture bright lights at Vivid Sydney filling your heart with peace. Imagine walking through colorful streets where every step feels easy and calm. Take a moment just for you—soak in this peaceful place whenever you need it.

Family camping in the backyard at night. 0

6 Simple Ways To Have A Little Summer Adventure

Summer Adventure Tips from Bear Grylls: 1. Under the Stars: Spend nights under the stars in your backyard or at camp. 2. New Skills: Learn surf, bike ride, create art, play music—whatever sparks joy. 3. Help Others: Lend a hand to neighbors, siblings, or relatives with chores. 4.

Ivanna Fajardo and Neysha Miranda smiling in the water. 0

“Mom & Me” 2017 Cover Winner: Ivanna Fajardo & Neysha Miranda

Meet Neysha & Ivanna: A Heartwarming Story of Love and Triumph Discover the extraordinary journey of a mother-daughter duo who face KCNQ2 Epilepsy, autism, intellectual disability, and more with grace. Watch how their love blossoms over tiny milestones—like crawling or standing—reminding us all to celebrate the little joys life offers.

Tony Mancuso with a woman holding a certificate and a young person. 0

Super Dadvocate: Tony Mancuso Making a Difference!

Tony Mancuso, a father of a special needs son for over two decades, quietly transforms lives as an unsung hero advocacy champion. His unwavering dedication has led to new laws that change families’ realities, offering hope where there was none. Discover how Tony’s journey became Super Dadvocate.

Young woman in a blue t-shirt holds a stuffed monkey in front of shelves of books and stuffed animals. 0

Parenting Your Young Adult Through Their First Employment Experiences

Navigate the job hunt: Your young adult with disabilities deserves your support and encouragement during the interviewing process, offering reassurance that setbacks aren’t permanent failures but instead valuable learning opportunities essential to finding fulfilling work in their chosen field

Labrador wearing a red service dog vest interacts with a person. 0

Service Dogs to the Rescue: Helping to Make Dreams Come True

Service Dogs Transform Lives Discover how service dogs change everything for children and adults facing physical and mental challenges. Meet ECAD-trained dogs that open doors, fetch items, dial 911, and provide unmatched emotional support – all while offering love as their reward. Embrace newfound independence with the perfect companion by your side. (Service Dogs Benefits)

Go Baby Go! Mobility & Sociability logo with children and adults. 0

Go Baby Go! Mobility & Sociability

Two young kids, Mason and Paisley, transformed their lives through adaptive riding toys, learning to play with others despite disabilities. “Go Baby Go” volunteers modified regular ride-on toys so children like them could join in games, showing families that even limited mobility doesn’t mean missing out on everyday joys.

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