When Grayson was an infant, she started having seizures. She was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called STXBP1 encephalopathy when she was a teenager. There are only a few hundred cases of this disorder in the world. The specialists said she would not live to see her first birthday. Grayson is now 25 years old!
We connected with CDS early in Grayson’s life. She attended the Wonder Center, where she received physical and occupational therapy. This allowed me to work while she was at day care. The specialized care she received at the Wonder Center was vital to her development.
Managing adult life with a child with different abilities is challenging. We receive case management services from CDS, and Grayson’s case manager makes things happen quickly. She understands the importance of the services and support I receive that help me care for Grayson.
CDS case management has connected us with services like nursing, respite, and personal care aid. Grayson currently attends Piedmont Skills Blue Ridge for support services Monday through Friday. This allows me to continue to work outside the home and have a break from caregiving responsibilities.
Grayson loves to be outside in nature. Last year, I decided to walk and push Grayson along Greenville’s Swamp Rabbit Trail. She loved it so much that we kept walking. We have successfully completed walking/rolling the entire Swamp Rabbit Trail! It took us two months to complete, and we are looking forward to walking the new trail additions.
From attending the Wonder Center when she was younger to now having a case manager, Grayson has received so much support from CDS. We are so thankful for these services that have helped her grow into the person she is today.
