When Beau was born sunny side up, with the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck, we had no idea the journey ahead. He was jaundiced and spent his first week in the hospital.
By age two, we learned he was autistic and had a gut virus that made it hard for his body to process food. He needed medication, therapy, and a lot of care.
Beau didn’t speak until he was almost six. After years of prayers, doctor visits, and therapy, he looked at us and said,
“I want a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, please.”
We were in tears. Now, he sings, repeats himself, and we love every word.
School was full of ups and downs, from being put on the wrong bus to getting lost in the bathroom, to being bullied in high school. He even got stuck in an elevator and had to be rescued by firefighters.
Still, Beau stayed kind and hopeful.
He became the high school basketball team’s manager—the towel and water boy—and he was proud of it.
In 2020, during COVID, we found Special Strong and met Daniel. Everything changed.
Beau lost 20 pounds, got stronger, and, more importantly, gained confidence. Special Strong gave him a safe place where he felt seen and supported. He started believing in himself.
Today, Beau works at Lifetime Fitness—thanks to Daniel’s help. He’s active, joyful, and proud of who he is.
Special Strong didn’t just change Beau’s life—it gave him a future.
After five years, this isn’t just a program—it’s our family.
We could go on and on, but if there’s one thing to know—it’s that every child, with the right support, has the power to shine.
Beau is proof.
