December 2 is Special Education Day. This day honors the children, families and professionals who ensure every child has the support they need to reach their full potential.
Pictured: Knox
Easterseals PORT Health’s Early Intervention Program provides education, developmental assessments and essential support to infants and toddlers with developmental delays and disabilities across North Carolina and Virginia. We proudly stand alongside the families we support while celebrating their growth every step of the way. One of those families is Knox and his parents, Rachel and Matt, who shared their journey with us.
“When Knox was born, he faced complex medical challenges. He was diagnosed with a large cyst on his brain and hydrocephalus and underwent two brain surgeries in his first four months of life. Amid so much uncertainty, Matt and I turned to ESPH’s Early Intervention Program to make sure Knox had every opportunity to thrive,” says Rachel. “They helped us monitor and reach goals that many said Knox would never reach in life. Through Early Intervention, we received developmental support for our son and also the tools, resources and guidance we need as parents. We now have meaningful relationships with therapists and service coordinators who truly helped change the trajectory of Knox’s life and our lives as a family.”
Today, Knox is thriving in the school system and currently receives individualized special education tailored to his strengths and needs. His parents are grateful for the partnership they have built with his teachers. Special Education Day personally holds a positive special meaning for their family, not only as parents, but also from Rachel’s perspective as an educator.
“It’s important to recognize and bring awareness to the students who work so hard to be successful, the families who advocate for their children’s needs and the special education teachers and therapists who put their heart and dedication into their students every day,” says Rachel.
Knox’s story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when families, educators and early intervention providers work together. Learn more about our Early Intervention services at eastersealsPORT.com/early-intervention.
ABOUT US
Easterseals PORT Health is a trustworthy, compassionate partner providing exceptional disability, mental health and substance use services to help our neighbors live their best lives. Purpose, dedication and empathy drive our in-person and telehealth service delivery. Our diverse and inclusive 2,600 member team provides more than 10.2 million hours of meaningful support to 40,200 kids, adults and families in 11,000 home, facility and community locations across North Carolina and Virginia. Learn more at eastersealsPORT.com.
