Stories of Impact

Mariam & Mohammad

Life with multiple children can be busy for any mom. Fortunately for Mervet, she has a special resource that has made life just a little easier for both her and her children, Mariam and Mohammad.

Mariam, a bubbly 11-year-old, was born with Down syndrome. Her younger brother, Mohammad, is 9 years old and was diagnosed with mild autism and, recently, mild ADHD.

About five years ago, Mervet found out about Curative’s Children’s Long-Term Support (CLTS) services through a friend. Since then, the family has worked closely with their service coordinator, Nada, who has been a steady source of support. Nada not only responds quickly to Mervet’s questions but also helps connect the family with resources tailored to each child’s needs.

Nada has connected them to a variety of services, including in-home respite care and the We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym. Mariam and Mohammad have also participated in swimming, gymnastics and taekwondo, as well as enriching summer camps that Nada has recommended to the family.

“Last year both of my kids did the iCan Bike camp. Mohammad learned how to ride the bike through this program and then we’re doing the same program again for this year for Mariam,” says Mervet.

These opportunities help both Mariam and Mohammad build skills, stay active and, most importantly, feel included.

With the help of Nada and CLTS, the family has also been able to complete some home modifications, like removing and replacing all the carpet from Mariam’s room to help control her asthma.

Mervet credits CLTS for opening the door for many things and reducing the isolation many families can feel when navigating raising a child with special needs. “I feel like the idea itself – just to be included and to have somebody that supports you and knows a lot about special needs – is really helpful. You don’t feel like you’re struggling by yourself.”