We are a family of five from Nicaragua. In my country, kids with special needs don’t have the option of treatment or help. Milton was in third grade when we came here to the United States. When he was 6 months old, we noticed some abnormal behavior in him, and were quickly able to identify that behavior as a delay in his motor skills. It wasn’t too long before he was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and Premeral Syndrome (bone weakness)—Milton is only the thirteenth person in the world with this specific diagnosis! All this to say, it took Milton four years until he began walking, and he continues to struggle with balance issues. He is non-verbal, so expressing his needs is difficult. It takes a special person to understand my special boy.

When those special people at Jill’s House came into our lives three years ago, the blessings started. 

In 2016, when I toured Jill’s House, I really didn’t have the money to send him for the night or weekend. On top of that, I was scared about sending Milton away, even for just one night—he’s never left my sight! I didn’t think anyone could give him the care I can as his mother.

In all honesty, I didn’t sleep the first night…but the night went well, and the report you all sent back was fantastic!

Since then, I have met the most wonderful people on staff at Jill’s House and have gotten to know the Family Support team really well—I attend the Bible study every Tuesday and have felt your support as you’ve helped me fund Milton’s Jill’s House stays. I mean it when I say Milton would not be able to come to Jill’s House without that funding.

You all have become like my family. The people at Jill’s House remind me that everything is going to be okay through their hugs and their prayers, and that’s only the start of what you all have done for my family: Jill’s House has helped me pay rent and helped me buy groceries. During the pandemic, Jill’s House has sent in care packages full of food for our family, goodies for the girls, and letters from your staff. As I list all of that, I do not have words for how thankful I am for all the wonderful ways you, my family, have come alongside us. Thank you very, very much.