My name is Marsha and I am a mom of a sweet 11-year-old girl with Angelman Syndrome. Angelman Syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes developmental delays and neurological disabilities. It is also a very rare disorder that only occurs in one in 15,000 live births or 500,000 people worldwide. Some common signs and symptoms usually appear in early childhood like, walking and balance disorders, gastrointestinal issues, seizures, and little to no speech. Despite these symptoms, people with AS have an overall happy & excitable demeanor. Most individual with AS will light up a room with their smile and laughter.
Payden brings so much joy to everyone she meets. Her gorgeous smile and contagious laugh are always on show. Payden is a kind, loving, intelligent, sweet young lady who is loved very much. She is non-verbal, but always has so much to say .
We have been part of Nicholas’ Hope Family Services for over 3 years now and let me tell you, it’s been the best 3 years we’ve had. First and fore most, Cheryl, the founder of NHFS, is such an amazing woman who I am inspired by and honored to know. The entire staff at Nicholas' Hope are experienced, educated, well mannered, professional and care so much about each of their clients. The support and relief that us, as parents, receive is HANDS DOWN THE BEST. Having a child that is special needs is very challenging at times, as well as very tiring, stressful and can be scary, but the staff at NHFS always makes sure that we have the support we need. If we ever have any questions or concerns they are right there when you need them.
We want Payden to strive in life and BE all she can BE, and with the help from her support workers, we truly believe that it will happen and that makes us very proud to be part of an amazing organization.
They Truly do CARE so Thank you
Marsha Helpard
Parent/ Client
Nicholas' Hope Family Services are awesome! They are like a big family and include me as part of that family. They have made my life so much better by working with my children to help them be successful in life. They are well trained and are always there to help.
NHFS was there for me and my children when I was at my lowest point of my life. They were the light at the end of my tunnel when all I could see was darkness. They helped me and my children regain our lives. They are always there to help with whatever I need.
The staff are amazing with my kids, and myself as well, and I believe they are meant to be in this field. They advocate for children and teach them life skills and how to be a “normal” kid and prepare them for the transition into adulthood.
Bertha
Parent/ Client
At the age of 7, our son had already been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, OCD, ODD, PASD, and severe anxiety. He spent more time out of school than in school and home life was absolutely horrifying. Everything was a struggle with behaviors, one after another.
Our son’s future was not looking very promising. We worked with doctors, hospitals, psychologists, and behaviorists. Life did not get much easier for us. Not much success happened with all of the efforts of so many people.
We met Cheryl (Ashley) and her staff when our son was 16. We were at a point where we had no idea what was going to happen to our son. Our home life was at an all time low and school was almost nonexistent.
With the guidance of Cheryl and her staff, we began to work on the issues my son had been struggling with. It was a lot of hard work and there were some hard times and easier times, but no one gave up on us. Every day was a new day. Our son has grown so much and has overcome so many life obstacles, including graduating from high school.
The staff of Nicholas’ Hope Family Services, along with Cheryl, go beyond what any family would ever expect, including inviting us to their special family functions. The are all about INCLUSION!
I do not know where my family would be today if Nichols’ Hope Family Services had not come into our lives!
Donna
Parent/ Client
Over the past two years, I have used the services of Nicholas Hope Family Services for the support and well being of my son.
As a single, working parent of a child with special abilities I could not be happier with the services Nicholas’ Hope have provided, the staff that work with Hayden are usually long-time employee’s and not someone different every visit. They understand Hayden and work hard to provide activities he enjoys.
I am very grateful for everything Nicholas’ Hope has done for my family and would strongly recommend them to anyone looking for family support.
Glenn Banks
Parent/ Client