Louie (13), Angelman syndrome, Davidson County

“We have services now but we pay for everything out of pocket. ”

Sharmane (38), Down syndrome, Davidson County

“Sharmane is 38 now, and I would love to take her back to those doctors and nurses who told me she wouldn’t be able to accomplish anything, and show them how wrong they were!”

Louie (9), Angelman syndrome, Davidson County

“My son needs physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Therapy and childcare are expensive and time-consuming. ”

Leisa (51); Grace (17), Autism, Davidson County

“Tennessee, you see, is a Southern state governed by legislators who do have time to pass laws granting it legal to take home road kill but leave little for those of us struggling to provide for our children with disAbilities.”

Kora (4), Other, Davidson County

““The public school system is preoccupied with passing the problem down…when it comes to dealing with the educational system, parents must be courageous and willing to battle.””