I am originally from Ghana, and am a single parent caring for Sesi, a child with special needs. As much as it can be challenging to raise any child in a typical household, being single makes it more so, but at the same time can be rewarding. Getting into Jill’s House took a while. The paperwork and the wait list were long processes, but once we were in, the Jill’s House experience was heaven-sent. I say heaven-sent, because they changed the course of our lives. Where there seemed to be no hope, we found solace and gained a family. Jill’s House is like a second family to Sesi and me—and Sesi absolutely loves to come to Jill’s House. You guys are just so open—you fully embrace her! Sesi is an absolute star at Jill’s House! You are friendly and you ensure that Sesi has everything she needs when she comes for a stay. Sesi is encouraged to do new things at Jill’s House: she is always willing to do new things, she just needs a little push. And you all believe in her enough to give her that push! She has grown so much with the experiences from Jill’s House and it lightens my heart just thinking of the HOPE they bring to so many families.

There’s so much to love about the Tyson’s program experience— Sesi loves hearing people play the piano during the chapel services. When she’s not on the playground, she loves singing and dancing. Beyond that, the opportunities the Blue Ridge weekend camp has offered us just blow my mind. Canoeing, kayaking, ziplining—she totally enjoys all of it.

When else would my daughter have the opportunity to try all of that? To be included in activities that others would instead hesitate to encourage her to participate in. Inclusion is big for me and I thank God for a place like this that embraces our abilities and gives us opportunities to experience the joy of life.

I don’t have to worry about her, ever. Like all other parents, on her first night at Jill’s House I was waiting on that phone call to let me know she needed to be picked up. And that call never came! I am given peace of mind that I have no need to worry, and I have never felt such peace of mind about Sesi before. She has so many people looking out for her, and in the best way possible. What else could I ask for?

You look out for not only my daughter, but also for me, too. When my mom died four years ago, and I was in the middle of my grieving process, I went on a moms retreat. The Family Support team made sure I went, because they knew I was mourning and needed that retreat. God took care of me through the conversations and activities that weekend. I could just sit back and listen, use my senses to rediscover the goodness of God even in the midst of my storm. That retreat was another heaven-sent! I went on another two years later, and at that point could really indulge and engage. During Sesi’s stays at Jill’s House, I use my respite time to really enjoy my discarded reading—I never have any time otherwise to read. I have time to clean the home and finally accomplish tasks I’ve been waiting to get done. Otherwise, I will just watch a movie by myself and take naps.

Thank you for creating a place that cherishes Sesi and supports me to breathe again. Your generosity has given me retreats where I can find time to reflect and read and sometimes also do a small act of kindness to others. Your generosity has given Sesi beautiful new opportunities for adventure, joy, and caregiver friends who adore her. I am so thankful to you. God richly bless you and multiply what you give in many different ways.