'Walking And Rolling' For A Cause
by Laura Monteverdi, Reporter
February 02, 2013 5:25 PM
For children with disabilities, life can be very difficult. Many require special medical care, therapies and education to get through each day - care that be very costly.
For 14-year-old Brandon Sprock, every day is a challenge.
"They finally diagnosed him when he was three as mentally disabled. He has autism and ADHD,” said Sarah Sprock, Brandon’s mother.
Complications with his first shots caused him to have a seizure, leaving him permanently brain damaged.
“He has about a 100-word vocabulary, but as far as having a conversation, Brandon can't have a conversation with us,” explained Sprock.
Last year, Brandon's life changed. With the help of funds raised from the Children's Care Foundation's annual 'Walk 'N Roll', he received a device that helps him to communicate with his family.
“Without CCHS he couldn't do his daily routines and get the things he needs,” said Sprock, through tears.
On Saturday, the foundation was at it again, walking and rolling, and raising money for kids like Brandon.
“We're able to give them opportunities and environments to truly learn,” said Jessica Wells, President of the Children’s Care Hospital and School Foundation. “Great environments to help enhance their skills and teach them new skills to be successful in life so this money really helps to take that to the next level,” said Wells.
900 children and families took part in the 19th Annual 'Walk 'N Roll', making laps around the Empire Mall and raising $95,000. The money is enough to purchase new equipment and fund programs for those with special needs.
“We get to take all that money write a check back to Children's Care and spend it directly on the kids," said Erin Horstmeyer, 'Walk 'N Roll' Coordinator.
The first 'Walk 'N Roll' had just 19 walkers and in the past 19 years, the foundation has been able to raise more than $600,000.
