When our daughter, Michaela, was born in an Illinois hospital severely premature almost 23 years ago, the doctors gave her no chance for survival. But, God had different plans for our only child.
Michaela was fortunate to spend 17 years enrolled in the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired (ISVI). Thanks to the education she received there, our daughter was able to participate in the Brevard County School District’s wonderful BLAST program after our move to this area. It was when she “aged out” of BLAST that we learned about BAC.
To say that Chevyoune and I were pleased when BAC accepted Michaela into the day program earlier this year is a gross understatement. BAC truly cares about our daughter and her team listens to what Michaela wants for her life. You can’t imagine how appreciative we are for these compassionate people. And, even though Michaela does not yet work in the production bays, it is intensely rewarding for us to talk to her peers that do. Understandably, they are very proud of the achievements they’ve made through the independent work opportunities offered at the Center, including earning a paycheck. Michaela’s friends at BAC are remarkable individuals.
Michaela greatly enjoys her time at BAC and greets staff members and her peers with enthusiastic “high fives” at drop-off each morning. We are so proud that she has developed into an incredible young woman who does not possess a mean bone in her body and who loves everyone she meets. Our daughter is the joy of our lives.
Thank you for allowing us to tell you a little bit about Michaela and why we feel so blessed to have found BAC. Now we ask that you please give so that the individuals with disabilities yet to arrive know that BAC will also be there for them.
Have a blessed holiday season!
Don and Chevyoune Wood