My son Silas is eight years old and faced some very large complications during birth. As a result, he was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy along with Epilepsy, Severe Developmental Delay, Non-Verbal and Non-Ambulatory to name a few. Despite the complications that all of these things bring, he is a feisty little fighter, determined to prove all the doctors wrong who have told him that he will never walk or talk.

We applied for a Victory Scholarship for Silas to be able to go with his Challengers Cheer Team to compete in Orland, FL. We were so thankful when we found out we had received a scholarship from VVF! We never thought we'd see the day where he'd be competing on a team after receiving his diagnosis, but with your help it's possible, and for that we are so thankful! It is so much more than just cheering with a team. Inclusion is a big part of how we try to live with our everyday struggles. We like to give Silas every opportunity just like every kid should be able to experience. It gives him the opportunity to shine along with neurotypical and able-bodied peers. The goal of having Silas on a team is to show him that his life isn't just therapy, doctors, hospital stays and school with more therapy. It shows him he is able to participate just like any other kiddo his age!

Thank you again VVF for making this possible for our family!

~ Silas’ Mother