Heather Mann, Jeremy's mom, was just six months pregnant when Jeremy was born. In many cases, babies born this early have a good chance of survival, but for Jeremy, who weighed just two pounds, 7 ounces at birth, it was touch and go for months.

Mann, a Developmental Aide who works in a Letchworth Developmental Facility group home, said Jeremy needed surgery when he was just 13 days old. Breathing problems, a head bleed, an artery that never closed, collapsing lungs and the inability to suck all contributed to Jeremy's medical problems.

By the time Jeremy was nine months old, Mann knew he was not developing as he should. After extensive testing by a pediatric neurologist, Mann learned Jeremy had cerebral palsy and was partially blind.

Inside this beautiful brown-eyed child, though, is a sharp mind and Mann was determined that Jeremy would live his life to his fullest potential. Today, the seven year old attends a SEFA-funded agency where he is learning such basic skills as using the bathroom and walking in a walker. Most encouraging is Jeremy's progress with activities that teach the children such subjects as the days of the week, animals, awareness of themselves and their families and adaptive games that encourage the youngsters to respond and participate as fully as possible. "Everything for the children is sensory stimulating," said Mann.

Mann keeps herself informed and up to date on developments in caring for and teaching children with CP. She attends conferences and networks with other parents.

A tireless advocate for her son, Mann has discovered numerous organizations that have limited funding. Among her many blessings are the services she is able to access through the SEFA-funded agencies in the Hudson Valley.

"I've seen Jeremy make more progress with this organization," said Mann. "The case managers (provided through the organization) help as much as they can. I'm pleased about the fact that Jeremy is going to school there," she said. "They really know their stuff."

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