Sarah O. - Quilt Finished in 2008

Born: August 15, 1996

Illness: Cerebral Palsy, Autistic features, legally blind, nonverbal

A Thank You From Sarah's Family!

August 26, 2008

Sarah just loves her new quilt as you can see by the big smile on her face. It is just beautiful! And so large! Plenty of warm pretty material. It brightens up her whole room. She has just come home from the hospital and the quilt was a wonderful, cheery surprise.

Just as I was having my worst part of the morning with Sarah's present illness, the doorbell rang and the quilt was handed to me... a ray of sunshine in my dismal day. I don't think the timing was a coincidence. Things happen for a reason and the quilt just lifted my heart from my worries about my sweetie.

Thank you to all the stitchers. Their work is just lovely.

Lesley and Sarah

Sarah O.'s Story

Written by Sarah's mom in May 2008

Sarah was a full term baby with no apparent issues. As the months went by she was unable to meet her developmental milestones. At the age of one year she was diagnosed with Spastic Quadriplegia Cerebral Palsy. By the age of 2-3 it became clear she had autistic features as well. It also became apparent she had severe sensory issues-especially to sound, light and touch. At the age of 6 she bilateral hip surgery with multiple leg muscle lengthenings. She has been tested for Rett Syndrome among with many other genetic/metabolic/mitochondrial conditions-- all with negative results.

Sarah is 11 years old. I teach her at home with support from our local school system. She is full care in every possible way. She is legally blind, nonambulatory and nonverbal. She is considered 'undiagnosed' but most closely resembles a child with Rett Syndrome. She has a wonderful sense of humor, remaining trusting and gentle, considering all she has gone through. She has learned to read and has started painting on canvases. She participates in theraputic riding which she really enjoys.