"Scottie Gaither is a “can do” kind of kid. He’s a bright, curious and determined second grader who greets everyone with an engaging smile.
Scottie Gathier
2008 National Youth Representative
Easter Seals, West Georgia
He’s quick to talk about how he loves to swim and play soccer, and do things with his family, especially with his Dad.
Meeting 8-year-old Scottie today, it’s hard to imagine the toddler his family and friends recall, who was diagnosed with “severe autism” at age two. Last spring, he was named the top first grade student in his class, a distinction he takes in stride.
Janelle and Rick Farrell discovered their beautiful baby girl, Vanessa, had Down syndrome the moment she was born. Read more about Vanessa...
Kyle
Cranston, Rhode Island
Meeting Street's Bright Futures
Three days after he was born, Kyle developed spinal meningitis, a crippling disease that has left him paralyzed.
When Kyle was three, he was enrolled in Meeting Street. He was completely nonverbal and would get so frustrated trying to communicate that silent tears would stream down his little face. Read more about Kyle...
Nelson
Cranston, Rhode Island
Meeting Street's Bright Futures
On any day of the week, including weekends and holidays, if you ask Nelson where he wants to be, he’ll say Meeting Street. If you ask him what he wants to do, he’ll say play with his friends at Meeting Street. Read more about Nelson...