Connecticut Heart Gallery
To learn about any of these children call 1-888-KID-HERO
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AiyannaCONNECTICUT FAMILIES ONLY This 13-year-old sweet little girl has a bright personality and has been very expressive lately about how important it is for her to be- and feel- part of a family. Aiyanna is a very friendly child who enjoys singing, dancing, gymnastics and cooking; and she longs to share these experiences with a family she can claim as her own.
Overall healthy, Aiyanna has a peanut allergy and is prescribed an epi-pen. Due to trauma she has experienced, she attends clinical support; and this will continue, preferably with a patient and loving family involved, to help her understand her past. A home where she can have her own bedroom will enable Aiyanna to feel safe and respected. She is actively involved in addressing her trauma; and with time and positive supports, there is great potential for Aiyanna to flourish as a resilient and independent young lady.
Supports in her 5th grade classroom have enabled Aiyanna to make great strides in her education. Although still behind on some subjects, she works diligently to overcome any obstacle in her path and her teachers describe her as "a bright, charismatic young lady." When her emotional needs are met, she has an easier time attending to her classwork.
Although well loved by her foster mom, Aiyanna is aware this is not where she will grow up and she is wonders who will raise her. She deserves a family who will emotionally commit to her for a lifetime and be by her side as she learns about her past and plans for her future. She is a child who should worry about making friends and having fun; not worrying about whether or not she has a family. She describes herself as "kind, funny and helpful" and she would love to share these traits with a family.
For information about Aiyanna contact Nadine McDonald: nadine.mcdonald@klingberg.com |
Jay'Vion
Although he can be a very endearing and loving child, due to trauma he has endured as well as multiple moves within the foster care system, Jay’Vion struggles in identifying his feelings and expressing his emotions in a healthy way. He can be physically aggressive and impulsive; so a patient and consistent parenting style would best suit his needs. Transitions are hard for him so he works well with a predictable routine. Clinical supports, along with a mentor, are just some of the resources Jay’Vion has to help him navigate the world around him. When calm, he understands right from wrong and good versus misbehavior. His little body tries to make good decisions and when he has really good days, he knows it, and is happy.
Jay’Vion has a great imagination and loves to use his creativity while he plays with his toys. He loves to be inside watching ‘PJ Masks’ just as much as he likes to be outside playing and expending some energy! He is a kindergarten student who receives supports in school to help him reach his fullest potential. Close family-school communication is important in fostering seamless transitions as well as to provide consistent expectations for him.
Jay’Vion needs a very special family who is willing to learn how to best parent him and help him overcome some emotional obstacles. He has had a pretty rough start but with the right family by his side, he has great potential for his future.
For information about Jay’Vion contact: Sandra Tapia-Arcos at email: sandra.tapia-arcos@ct.gov |
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"Ana"
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"Adam"
Due to ongoing court proceedings, "Adam" is not this young man's true name, however what stands true is how special he is and his hope to find a patient family who will unconditionally provide him with a fresh start in his young life. Adam is 13 years old with a funny and sociable personality. He is of Caucasian and Puerto Rican decent, has a kind and caring heart and is extremely loyal and forgiving. Alongside his sister, 'Ana,' he craves to belong in a family who will stand strong with him, despite any obstacles he encounters. Adam works very hard to be the best version of his self both in the home and at school, however, due to many adults failing to meet his emotional needs, he experiences feelings of self-doubt which requires encouragement. He sometimes tries too hard when making friends, and this can negatively impact the friendship. He is working hard on his interactions and is looking forward to meeting new people and forming more healthy friendships. Adam would benefit from a positive adult who can recognize and remind him of his many strengths. Trust does not come easily for him, and a family must be willing to put in the effort and be patient. Once he feels secure, Adam's bright and wonderful personality shines through.
A strong sibling relationship exists between Adam and his sister, and he learns a lot from spending time with her and sharing experiences. Together, they both hope to find their perfect family, where they can live and grow up together. A positive parental role model would be ideal to help provide guidance as he embarks on a journey toward becoming a successful adolescent, just like his sister. Sharing a home with other children around his age or older, and a family with dogs, would be a perfect match!
In school, Adam receives support to help to increase his ability to better concentrate and learn. He developed an interest in art which has grown into a great talent. He has also learned ways to express his emotions through his art. Adam never bores of building with Legos, drawing,playing video games, and watching television. He has played on recreational football and wrestling teams, and he enjoys being active.
Above all, Adam just wants--and deserves--to be loved and know that he and his sister are finally home, together.
For information about 'Adam' contact Nadine McDonald: nadine.mcdonald@klingberg.com |
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"Brian"Since the legal proceedings have not yet concluded, Brian is not the true name for this very special 13-year-old boy. What is true, however, is Brian's desire to grow up in a family where he will receive unconditional love and support. Brian is of Caucasian descent and stocky build. He is presently residing in a special setting able to meet his needs, however, he is ready to join a family familiar with, or willing to learn about, Autism. With supports, consistency and structure, Brian has made great strides in learning appropriate behaviors and developing positive social interactions. Although Brian displays dysregulated behavior at times, he has learned to "take space" when he needs a moment or to calm himself down and is learning to communicate when he is upset. A chore chart helps Brian know what needs to be done and he responds well to positive reinforcements. He makes his own bed, eats with utensils, and selects his own outfits for school with pride. Brian is also able to complete many 1 step tasks on his own such as showering, throwing away garbage, and going to the bathroom. As an 8 th grade student in an extended day, extended year, educational setting, Brian is working very hard at meeting all his educational goals. He continues to require a high degree of visual supports and staff prompting to complete his work; however, this young man has the resilience to work hard on his self-help skills and following a schedule independently. He enjoys attending school and his teachers are proud of the efforts he puts in each day.
Watching movies and cartoons are favorite activities which Brian would love to share with a family. His Favorite movies include Toy Story, Cars, and Peanuts. Brian enjoys coloring and crafts his own clock made of construction paper. His joy shines whenever a holiday comes around.
There are extended family members with whom Brian can spend time, however, they cannot care for him full time. Their involvement in his life is positive and will continue. The family members give Brian a sense of familial connectivity and they will be a support to any family he joins. Attentive, patient and encouraging parents who are willing to work with in-home supportive services will be thrilled to watch Brian as he continues to grow and learn every day. A two-parent home where there are no pets in the home would be ideal. DCF will work as a team with his family to ensure his successful transition into, and ultimate creation of, a family where he can grow for a lifetime.
For information about 'Brian' contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov |
"Connor" A very special family is being sought for 'Connor,' a 17-year-old adolescent. Connor is not his real name due to confidentiality at this point, however, he is a resilient youth ready to be discharged from his residential setting and ready to join a family capable of meeting his diverse medical needs. This handsome young man is of Caucasian descent with dark hair and a smile which envelops his whole face. Despite being non-verbal, Connor communicates excitement with his bright eyes and body motions. He is happy overall but at times when he presents as uncomfortable, he needs a family to sooth and comfort him. Connor is diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and spastic quadriplegia. His substantial medical concerns will last throughout his lifespan and he is wheelchair dependent, and a home is needed to accommodate his challenges.
Connor is in the 12th grade where he receives special education services. His teacher reports he is making good progress in all goals and he enjoys social interaction with his friends. Listening to music and toys that make noise brings joy to Connor's daily life. He loves the feel of being outdoors and having stuffed animals around him for comfort. He loves doing arts and crafts and going out into the community in the car.
Given his profound medical condition, Connor will be followed closely by many medical professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health and any family considering the care of him will need to attend many medical appointments on a regular basis, as well as engage with service providers in the home.
Connor will require comprehensive care from loving adults for his lifetime and although he will be medically dependent on others for the rest of his life; what he really needs is a family he can depend on. Cole has demonstrated the ability to form positive relationships but is need of a forever family to develop long-term connections with.
For information about 'Connor' contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov |
Bella
"Highly curious and extremely active" are descriptors which come to mind when thinking about Bella's personality. She likes to give hugs and kisses and enjoys attention and affection from those who care for her. Having been born with a very rare genetic condition where various amounts of genetic material is missing from one of her chromosomes, as well as some exposure to substances while in utero, Bella is a little girl who will require life-long support and care. She is overall medically stable; however, it is generally difficult to predict long term outcomes for children with this genetic condition.
Educationally Bella receives supports in school and throughout her extended year program. A behaviorist works with the school and the after-school program to help everyone best meet Bella's needs. There are times Bella's negative behaviors are able to be redirected, however, her impulsivity and desire for attention sometimes get in her way.
This little girl loves rainbows and animals. She happily plays on her tablet, makes puzzles or creates with putty. Her short attention span requires much attention from adults, and music is used to help her calm down at times. Of all the things Bella enjoys, all of it pales in comparison to the desire for her to be able to join a family where she can receive the unconditional acceptance and love only a family can provide.
For information about Bella contact Nadine MacDonald: nadine.macdonald@klingberg.com |
"Drew"A truly special family in the Norwich/New London area is being sought for 16-year-old "Drew." Due to pending legal Drew has a special relationship with some relatives who, although he cannot live with them, love him very much and will remain a part of his life. A family willing to accept him into their lives will benefit from these extended family relationships and his ideal family would have no younger children as their exuberance can be agitating for him. Some things Drew would love to do with his family include listening to music, watching YouTube videos and sharing meals. He loves all types of food! Drew can keep himself occupied for long periods of time and although it may be difficult at times to understand him verbally, he is patient and will communicate his needs by writing things down. His Autism diagnosis and limited verbal skills do not limit him in any other way. He is kind and thoughtful and loves to think about presents and making Christmas lists for others. A special school environment has been successful in meeting his educational needs, and he is adored by his teachers and school staff. When his surroundings become overstimulating, he will stand up and begin flapping his hands above his head for about one minute and then he sits back down. He is not easily flustered and solid communication between school and home provides the structure and consistency he needs for ultimate success. The legal process for Drew will be on-going for some time, however, stability within a patient family is his most immediate need right now! He will thrive within a family where he feels connected and secure and understands he does not need to move to any other home. For information about Drew contact Denise Lopez: denise.lopez@ct.gov |
"Jacob"
A very special family is being sought for 'Jacob,' a sweet 10-year-old boy. Jacob is not his real name due to confidentiality, however, he is a resilient young boy who is ready to be discharged from a hospital setting and ready to join a family capable of meeting his medical needs. This adorable boy is of Caucasian descent with dark hair and a smile that lights up the room. Jacob is non-verbal and blind but he hears and responds best when told what will be happening, he enjoys toys that make music and vibrate. At times Jacob will present as uncomfortable but he is able to make noise if he's frustrated or in pain to alert those around him, he needs a family to sooth and comfort him. Jacob is diagnosed with Hydrocephalus, Epilepsy and Arnold-Chiari malformation. Jacob requires total assistance for all activities of daily life (bathing, dressing, and nutrition). His medical concerns will be ongoing as he grows up and he is wheelchair dependent. A home is needed to accommodate his challenges, but nursing supports are available to assist as well as medical training to learn about his specific needs. Jacob is in the 5th grade where he receives special education services. His teachers report he is making good progress in all goals and he enjoys social interaction with his peers. Listening to music and toys that make noise brings joy to Jacob's day. Jacob will be followed closely by many medical professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health and any family considering the care of him will need to attend medical appointments on a regular basis, as well as engage with service providers in the home. Jacob will require comprehensive care from loving adults for his lifetime and although he will be medically dependent on others for the rest of his life; what he really needs is a family that will love him and be by his side forever. For information about Jacob contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov |
Isabella
Sweet and giggly, 12-year-old Isabella is just like every other little girl who deserves to be part of a family where she is loved and cherished. Having been born prematurely, Isabella, or Bella as she likes to be called, has some medical issues which will stay with her for life. However, this inquisitive and determined little girl never lets her disabilities outshine her abilities! Having a very loving and social disposition, Bella blows kisses, claps, and laughs when she expresses affection and is excited. She loves to be hugged and she will hug you back and snuggle while you chat about your day. She is sensitive to some sounds, so her reactions could take the form of screaming or appearing panicked. She is working hard and increasing her language skills, however, she can also communicate through her iPad and let her needs be known.
Being wheelchair dependent for mobility, Bella also utilizes a stander and is able to "bunny hop" around the home. She receives various therapies to increase her movements, and she loves the feeling of being "stretched" to improve her muscle tone. Working on her independence, Bella can feed herself, drink from a sippy cup and propel her wheelchair to get where she needs to go. Structure and routine are important for her success, and she shows up to her 6 th grade classroom prepared and ready to work. Her positive energy can be felt by her teachers and her friends.
Given Bella's medical and physical condition, she will be followed closely by professionals, both in and out of the home environment, to ensure she maintains her optimum health. She will need ongoing care from loving adults over her lifetime during which she will reward her family with hugs, smiles and love in return.
If you are interested in learning more about Bella please contact Holly Nesdale: holly.nesdale@ct.gov |
Teagan
With his wink and sweet smile, alongside his happy disposition, 14-year-old Teagan is deserving of a one or two parent family who will love him unconditionally while attending to his special needs. Although ideally his family would already be versed in the needs of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, this is not a requirement to start. Although he has some very specific and unique challenges, with the right family, he can thrive, and blossom and his family will be rewarded with his reciprocal love and affection. Described as a daytime “rabbit,” Teagan is an energetic young man who has a hard time sitting still. He likes to be active and can be impulsive, so holding his hands and keeping him close allows him to engage with the world around him in a safe manner. Even though he is non-verbal, Teagan can communicate with sign language and can make his needs known by using some sound vocalizations. Engaging in face-to-face communication enables successful interactions and he understands what is being said to him. Teagan enjoys watching TV and smiling and moving to the sound of music. In time, he may have the opportunity to engage in activities such as riding a bike, playing with age-appropriate toys, and independently playing outside, however for the time being, his inability to assess safety requires constant supervision and attention. He responds well to consistency, routine, structure, and nurturance and his behaviors are not an intentional means to disobey, rather, a consequence of his inability to understand cause and effect. Attending therapeutic school where his education is enriched and his social development enhanced, has allowed Teagan to enjoy interactions with his teachers and friends. While he may struggle to pay attention at times, he always works as hard as he can! Therapeutic connections will remain in place to help Teagan and his family with a successful transition; and working collaboratively with helping professionals will be crucial to a family’s success. Parenting Teagan may bring both joys and challenges along the way, but watching him make progress and grow into the special young man he can become will be a lifetime of rewards for him and his family.
If interested in learning more about Teagan please contact Nadine McDonald: nadine.mcdonald@klingberg.com |
Anthony
Anthony is a resilient young man who has just turned 13 years of age. His charm, sense of humor, and insight are remarkable traits for someone so young, and he is considered a "breath of fresh air" by those who know him well. His caring and considerate nature motivates him to learn new things, explore, and help others in any way he can.
After numerous occasions in his life when he was left disappointed by adults, Anthony tends to challenge the people in his life to see if they "will keep him." If you ask Anthony, he will admit he tends to "test people" to see if they really love him by exhibiting some challenging behaviors. He is diligently working on changing his methods to understand healthier things such as a parent doing homework with him, showing up at his soccer games, taking an interest in what he likes, and reading to him are ways in which parents display commitment and love. Anthony deserves consistency in his life to better understand he is worthy of the love and security a family can provide.
Anthony is a 'people-pleaser' who will jump at any opportunity to participate in an activity with an adult or friend and help around the house. As a typical adolescent, if there is any prospect for earning money, there is no task or job too big for him; he is up to the challenge when there's money involved! Educationally Anthony is motivated to excel however he requires validation, support, and oversight to ensure his work is being completed.
Because of his past experiences which include significant grief, loss, and familial separation, Anthony needs a family willing to work through the difficult moments with him and show him he is still loveable, even when he is not perfect. He enjoys challenging himself with learning new things or trying new activities and he consistently asks questions to explore new ideas. Anthony enjoys playing outdoors and playing video games and is always willing to try something new.
When thinking about a family in which he'd like to grow up, Anthony stated he would love to have a mom and a dad in a home with pets (or willing to get them). He would love for an active family with whom he could go hiking and biking, and a dad who is interested in playing video games with him. Anthony is willing to consider moving out of state and would be happy either with a sibling or being an only child.
Anthony is a very smart, engaging, and vibrant young man who aspires to become a police officer so he "could help kids just like" him. He currently participates in a police explorers program and is active in soccer, and karate. Despite Anthony's difficult past, he remains positive, hopeful, and excited to find a family where he can grow up, nurtured and loved, for his lifetime.
If interested in learning more about Anthony, please contact Adam Liebowitz: adam.liebowitz@ct.gov |
"Abigail" Talented, outgoing, and chatty are just a few words which come to mind when thinking about Abigail, an almost 14-year-old who is a joy to have around. Because the legal proceedings have not yet concluded, her name is fictional, however the reality is, Abigail is ready to join a family where she can grow up and flourish into adulthood.
This young lady is amazingly talented. She is musically inclined and taught herself to play the Ukelele when she received one as a gift. She can play the piano by ear and her favorite Broadway musical is "Hamilton." As a young person who is invested in a successful future, Abigail would like to join a family who will support her through her high school years and be by her side when she enters college. She excels in the classroom and is noted to be one of the most diligent students. She has many friends at school and provides positive influence on others.
Due to circumstances beyond her control, Abigail was exposed to a lot of turmoil in her young life and has never experienced unconditional maternal love, or a positive father figure. These events caused her to have difficulty maintaining safe space and she needed to receive much clinical support. However, because of her resiliency and fortitude, Abigail has made significant strides regarding her overall well-being, and she eagerly looks forward to having a family she can enjoy shopping with and one whom will sit on the bleachers to cheer her on while she plays softball.
Being active in summer camp where she was elected to be a C.I.T. (counselor in training) and the teen group at Church are ways Abigail maintains healthy friendships and keeps herself busy. She has positive relationships with a few important adults in her life, and these connections will continue. As with any typical teenager, Abigail needs prompting to keep her room clean and use her words to talk through her feelings. Her social worker reports she is a "cool kid who is fun to be with and anyone would be lucky to know her!"
There is so much for Abigail, and her future family, to look forward to as she grows and matures. With supports and positive role models to guide her, Abigail's potential is endless. |
"Tommy"Due to on-going court proceedings, we cannot use "Tommy's" birth name, but we can share information regarding this very sweet, charming, and handsome young man of Caucasian and African American descent. Tommy is a resilient and calm 12-year-old preteen who enjoys spending time with friends and eating his favorite foods. While he is not a picky eater, he will tell you he is always ready for some Macaroni and Cheese, Pepperoni Pizza or Buffalo Wings! Playing basketball or football in his cool Nike sneakers are some ways he likes spending time with his friends. Video games are also a fun pastime for Tommy.
Getting up for school every morning is not a problem for this 7th grader, and he is doing well academically. Although there are some school supports in place, he does not need much prompting to get things done and is always polite and easy to engage. He has friends with whom he likes to spend time, however, he does not like to be the center of attention and is a bit reserved in his demeanor.
Having been greatly disappointed by many people in his life, it is important Tommy join a family where he can be shown adults can be loving and reliable. He would love to be part of an active and nurturing family who enjoys sports! He looks forward to shooting hoops with his family or having his parents watch him from the sidelines as he plays. Just hanging around the house and watching the Steelers play football, or sharing adventures and everyday activities with a family, are things he looks forward to in joining a family.
As important family connections, Tommy has older siblings with whom he has positive relationships and will need to stay in contact. Despite some of the darkness in his past, this young man has a bright future ahead of him, and with supports and positive role models to guide him, his potential has no limits!
For information about Tommy contact Denise Lopez: denise.lopez@ct.gov |
"Logan"A very special family in Connecticut is being sought for Logan, a sweet almost two-year-old little boy. Logan is not his real name due to confidentiality but he is a unique and special child who is ready to be discharged from a hospital setting and join a family capable of meeting his complex medical needs.
This adorable boy is of Caucasian descent with brown curly hair and beautiful blue eyes. He is non-verbal and legally blind but can hear some words or noises. He enjoys having his head rubbed, listening to music, and holding toys that vibrate. He can make his needs known by movements or gestures but above all, he
Due to having been deprived of oxygen prior to his birth, Logan has several medical conditions including cerebral palsy, global developmental delay, visual impairment, hypoxemia (an abnormally low concentration of oxygen in the blood) seizures, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and he has a lot of medical appointments. The permanent damage caused in utero renders him unable to walk and be wheelchair dependent, but he is a fighter through and through and faces many obstacles every day.
This sweet toddler receives physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy two times per week, and he is adored by all the adults who care for him. He will always be closely followed by many outside medical professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health, but what he truly needs is to be inside a family unit where he is read to, cuddled and allowed to blossom to the best of his abilities.
There are many unknowns for Logan's future, however, it is known he will be better off in the loving arms of a family right now, and not in a hospital. Caring for him will bring both challenges and joys in a family's life, however, this deserving little pumpkin will benefit greatly from being in an atmosphere where he can grow, learn, and be loved!
If you are interested in learning more about Logan, please contact Holly Nesdale: holly.nesdale@ct.gov |
Mahki
Meet 15-year-old Mahki who is yearning to join a family in Connecticut who will share with him all the joys and challenges adolescence brings. He is a friendly young man who is respectful and enjoys in engaging with others. He eagerly awaits the opportunity to build a relationship with a family with whom he can develop a sense of security and belonging. Due to exposure to significant traumatic events in his past, as well as the on-going rejection by many adults, Mahki struggles with allowing himself to be vulnerable in a relationship and his family will need to be patient and supportive while he, and his family, continue to work with clinical supports to overcome his past. He needs to be reassured adults can be safe and he can rely on them. Trust in a family's willingness to 'not give up' on him while he attends to his strong emotions will be a key element to his success. To expect him to be 'quick' in his ability to heal and address his past will be unrealistic; and he will require constant reassurance he is worth the wait.
Mahki is a resilient youth who enjoys the typical adventures of any teenager. He enjoys caring for Hermit crabs and other similar creatures. He is creative, using his mind to build building and put things together. Additionally, he enjoys riding his scooter, playing video games, and reading.
Overall, Mahki needs a very special family who will commit to giving him the opportunity to know and feel what it's like to be loved and wanted. He wants more than anything to belong to a home and a family, and that family needs to be willing to 'prove' he is worthy of this dream.
Mahki is a smart, handsome, and deserving young man who needs a family in his life to help him grow and be successful. He is looking for a place where he can grow into a healthy and happy young adult, where he will be provided all the feelings belonging to a family everyone deserves.
If you are interested in learning more about Mahki, please contact Nadine McDonald: nadine.mcdonald@klingberg.com |
"Annie and Thomas"A patient and nurturing family is being sought for Annie and Thomas. This Caucasian sibling group is currently not living together but they would love to be together again soon! Eight-year-old Annie and four-year-old Thomas are a dynamic duo with a lot of energy; and are typical playful children who need an active family with a lot of patience. These are not their real names as legal proceedings are still underway.
Thomas attends pre-school where he receives speech and special education services and he is doing well! Thomas is healthy and wears glasses. Both of the children have faced many traumatic events in their short life and they need a family who will be patient and love them unconditionally while they adjust to changes. With patience, dedication, consistency and a reliable routine, the children have the ability to develop the trust and comfort they need to feel safe. Both Annie and Thomas can be affectionate and loving and they enjoy typical activities of watching TV, playing games or being outside. They will be a lively addition to any family willing to work with them and show them what a loving family is all about.
If you are interested in learning more about Logan, please contact Holly Nesdale: holly.nesdale@ct.gov |
"Johnny"
Due to pending legal proceedings for this young man we must change his first name to respect confidentiality. And hence, we'd like to introduce you to Johnny! A special home is being sought for this handsome guy of Caucasian/Hispanic descent. Johnny is a 17-year-old who has some significant challenges including a seizure disorder controlled with medications and Autism, for which he receives numerous supportive services. An ideal family for Johnny will have parents with a flexible schedule to accommodate his in-home providers that will continue to support him and his family.
He thoroughly enjoys watching TV, playing with any toy balls that he can kick around, and playing with sensory toys. Although he is non-verbal, he is able to make noises to make his needs known. Some of his favorite foods are rice, beans, chicken, nuggets, fries, chips and applesauce squeezable pouches. Specialized care for Johnny includes helping him make improvements every day in his overall functioning and daily living activities. Johnny has a sweet and inquisitive disposition; he is eager to explore things around him and he can be content playing with building or stacking blocks.
Johnny attends school where he is doing well and making progress towards his learning goals. He is a high functioning young man who receives Special Education services including speech and language as well as a one-to-one paraprofessional to help him be successful.
An organized and patient family and with a knowledge autism or willingness to learn more about autism would best meet Johnny’s needs as developing meaningful relationships and building trust are key elements in Johnny’s current clinical goals.
A higher level of training and supports with be offered to Johnny's new family due to the complexity of his needs. Although parenting Johnny may not be “typical” he is just like any other young adolescent who needs a family by his side.
If you are interested in learning more about Logan, please contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov
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"Bobby"
A special family in Connecticut is being sought for an adorable 8-year-old boy. Bobby is not his real name due to confidentiality, however, he is a resilient young boy who is ready to be discharged from a hospital setting to join a family able to meet his medical needs. Bobby loves watching television, he enjoys musical cartoons as well as Disney shows and movies. Bath time is one of his favorite times of the day! Bobby is easy going and very sweet, soft things such as blankets or socks are soothing and comforting for Bobby. Bobby deserves a family to care for him while making memories together.
This adorable boy is African-American with dark hair and a smile that will melt your heart. Bobby is non-verbal and unable to walk or crawl, he has chronic lung disease, gastric issues requiring g-tube feedings and cerebral palsy. Bobby high fives those familiar to him and he expresses joy by gleefully clapping his hands. His medical concerns will be ongoing as he grows up and he is wheelchair dependent. A home is needed to accommodate his challenges, but nursing supports are available to assist as well as medical training to learn about his specific needs.
Bobby has not attended school yet but it is anticipated that he will be in grade 1, once he is able to be enrolled. Educational and developmental assessments will be completed to determine goals and objectives for Bobby in a school setting.
Bobby will be followed closely by many medical professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health and any family considering the care of him will need to attend medical appointments on a regular basis, as well as engage with service providers in the home. Bobby will require comprehensive care from loving adults for his lifetime and although he will be medically dependent on others for the rest of his life; what he really needs is a family that will love him and be by his side forever.
If you are interested in learning more about Logan, please contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov |
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Photographed by: Patty Swanson - Certified Professional Photographer (2017 CTPPA Award of Excellence; 2014-15 March of Dimes' Mission Triangle Award; 2012-2013 2x Connecticut Photographer of the Year, Creative and Art/Electronic Imaging.) www.pattyswanson.com and www.facebook.com/pattyswansonphotography |
Eddy 
