My son is Dylan Schneider. Dylan was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy – Spastic Quadriplegia and Developmental Delay at around 2 years old. This means Dylan cannot walk unassisted and has limited muscle control. Now a bright teenager, Dylan spends most of his time in a wheelchair.
Due to Dylan’s diagnosis, it has been very challenging for us to adapt our day-to-day living. Not only have we had to physically adapt things, but we’ve also had to learn how to care for Dylan and meet his specific needs on a daily basis. Dylan requires full assistance in doing routine tasks such as getting dressed, going to the bathroom, showering, and preparing meals.
Proceeds from last year’s Blarney Breakfast covered expenses for an adaptive tricycle for Dylan! Dylan absolutely loves his tricycle. It is easy for him to use since is adapted just for him and his abilities. He really enjoys being outside and now he is able to go on bike rides with the family. This also provides an opportunity for Dylan to receive therapeutic benefits and spend time with his friends. We are so grateful!
Dylan currently receives Targeted Case Management services through Rainbows United and attends Rainbows’ Camp Woodchuck each summer. However, he has really been working with Rainbows since he was only a few months old. When he was an infant, he received physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech, and vision therapy all through Rainbows’ services. He even attended preschool at their Child Care program from 3-5 years old.
Rainbows has helped our family so much. In the beginning, they showed us how to care for Dylan and taught us what he needed. As he’s gotten older, Dylan has learned to become more independent. He has learned to speak for himself when he needs things. He is becoming more confident and making more friends.
Rainbows’ entire staff have been nothing but helpful to us. They are very knowledgeable, and if one staff member can’t answer a question, they will find someone who can. Dylan’s Targeted Case Manager is Emma Low. She is very kind, always checking in with us to see what we need. She has always been there when I have questions about Dylan and his needs. As his Case Manager, she has helped us get funding for medical equipment and helps secure the financing that allows Dylan to attend Camp Woodchuck. At Camp, Dylan is able to be around other kids just like him. They go field trips and do fun stuff. This allows him to get out and have fun, and also lets us have some quality time with our daughter. Recently, Emma helped us get our bathroom remodeled for Dylan and his unique physical needs.
People who know Dylan would say he is a very kind-hearted boy. He is always thinking of others. He is a great friend and really cares about his family. He enjoys playing baseball and has recently started adaptive power soccer.
-Dawn Schneider, Dylan’s mother
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Dylan and his family since I started doing case management back in 2015. Dylan’s parents are wonderful advocates for him and his needs! It is an honor to be able to assist them with accessing resources for Dylan’s home modification and services such as summer camp. It’s a joy to see him enjoy his time there.”
-Emma Low, Rainbows’ Targeted Case Manager
