Spunky, boys-boy that loves all things outdoors, Onyx “Oni”, has done everything he can to make miracles happen. Oni was born premature and soon developed a number of special needs. He has Dystonic Cerebral Palsy, Level 2 Autism, Hydrocephalus (brain bleeds), a VP Shunt, and a high aspiration risk that causes him to get all of his hydration through a G-Tube. At just three years old, Onyx always tries to see the bright side of things. He likes to think of his G-Tube as his extra belly button and knows the tube is like a straw.
When Onyx was one year old, his family decided to move to Wichita from Hutchinson. That’s where Harley, Onyx’s mom, heard about Rainbows from another parent at the Parents As Teachers program she was involved in. Since then, they have received support from Rainbows in many ways. Harley expressed that not only has this experience made the transition into school and daycare simpler, but she stated, “Oni has started using a wheelchair and gait trainer, using his arms and legs, and feeding himself.” She continues by sharing, “he is more verbal, and is using play as a way to learn.” Harley feels that Rainbows has impacted her family’s lives in many ways. She explained, “Rainbows has helped with resources to information, therapy exercises, Targeted Case Management, childcare, socialization, and support.” Harley expressed that “Rainbows is very resourceful and is a great early childhood intervention that can cover many areas of needs.”
Onyx has made quite an impact in the Rainbows classroom as well. When Assistant Teacher, Angel Williams, was asked about Onyx, she shared “Onyx is a great kid. He’s friendly and very smart.” Angel also shared, “His favorite version of ‘Wheels on the Bus’ is from Cocomelon and always gets very excited when you tell him ‘Beep Beep’.”
Harley and Isaac, Onyx’s stepdad, sees Onyx as their “little fighter jet.” The family loves to travel and play outdoors with their dog, Apollo, that is an overly dramatic Husky. They refer to Apollo as their “other toddler”. Onyx also picked out his very own goldfish that looks like Mickey Mouse. They value the time they are able to spend together, whether it is inside, on vacation, or sharing their common interests and hobbies. The family is looking forward to the many other miracles that come their way, thanks to Onyx.
