Taylor Simmons

Taylor's Story
by Tracy Simmons

When I realized my daughter had developmental delays and a seizure disorder I was devastated; everything I had hoped and dreamed for her died at that time. I felt as though she would not have a positive future; little did I know the blessing I had been dealt.

Taylor is now 10 years old and although she is not toilet trained, requires constant supervision (as she has no understanding of danger), and continues to have seizures despite numerous medications, I recognize that the rewards of having Taylor in my life far outweigh the challenges.

Taylor received the diagnosis of Epilepsy at the age of 7 months, Autism at 2 ½ years, Leaky Gut Syndrome at 8 and Hyperthyroidism at the age of 9. She started school at our local early childhood center when she was 3 years old. I had no prior knowledge of the world of special education. Since that time I have continued to gather information and increase my knowledge to ensure she receives an appropriate public education.

When Taylor was 15 months old she started receiving services through Special Health Care Needs (SHCN). Her service coordinator was instrumental in assisting us with Taylor's needs and the challenges of having a child with a disability; she continues to receive services today. I am actively involved in SHCN’s Family Partnership and look forward to the quarterly meetings.

Unfortunately, no one handed me a guidebook on raising a child with disabilities and therefore I continue to learn more lessons as time goes by. I am thankful for the other parents of children with disabilities that have advocated for the services my daughter currently receives and see the value in parents uniting together. With my support I am confident Taylor will have a happy and meaningful life.

I would encourage parents to recognize their child’s abilities and gifts. All children with disabilities have lessons to teach us and we must allow them to do so.