Louie (13), Angelman syndrome, Davidson County

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

Mark (42), Autism, Davidson County

“I feel like if we got waiver services today it would be like being let out of prison. ”

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.””

Kimberly (Age 24), Cerebral Palsy, Davidson County

“It’s like the state just says, 'OK, you’re 21, we forget about you.'”

Joey (Age 13), Autism, Davidson County

“When Joey was first diagnosed with autism, I came across an article that said children with autism oftentimes grow up with very few friends. That hurt. I look to his school as a place where he can be with others. When he is out of school, I hope we will find new places where he can be with his peers.”