JALIYAH

Our Jaliyah has several diagnoses, Grand Mal seizures, ADHD, Autism, Global Delays, Speech Impairment and sensory issues. Hang Tough has been a life changer for our family, for our Heroes and their Sidekick, it’s a safe environment that our girls can be themselves without judgment. For my husband and my self, it’s a support group where other parents understand the daily challenges of raising children with special needs (whether physical or mental). We’re so grateful to be a part of the Hang Tough Foundation family.

-Jaliyah’s Mom

CALLIOPE

This picture was taken just as Cali had just gotten hooked up to her chemo and look at her smile. She had a huge smile on her face knowing that both mommy and daddy are with her. We’re so thankful for the people we have met along this journey that have become family and make this journey a little easier knowing we’re not alone.

-Calli’s Mom

OLIVIA

Being apart of Hang Tough has allowed us to experience things we typically wouldn’t due to a fear of our Hero getting sick. We are truly blessed to have them on this journey with us as we were told we wouldn’t get many of these experiences with Olivia.

-Olivia’s Mom

LUKE

The stress and worry felt upon hearing that your unborn child has a hole in his heart are difficult to explain, and the mix of emotions that well up as you discover that the differences don’t stop at the physical but also extend to the intellectual are nearly impossible to comprehend. The hospital stays, the surgeries, and learning more medical terminology than you ever wished to know creates an early parenting journey unlike anything that you ever expected. And yet, it’s a journey that helps you see the world in a way that you couldn’t before. The little, unseen treasures of life become visible, and the joy felt by your little one who’s been through so much is felt many times over in you. As the aspects of life that you once took for granted are cherished, the beauty of this world is felt in a way unimaginable before.

-Luke’s Dad

LJ and JAYLEN

Because of Hang Tough our Heroes have had the honor of meeting other Heroes and Sidekicks who understand their illness or diagnosis without any judgment but instead build lifelong friendships.  Family isn’t always a blood relative, it’s people who know your struggles, accept you for who you are and love to see you smile. That’s what Hang Tough means to us!

-LJ and Jaylen’s Mom

JOEY

Nobody talks about having a really sick baby, that baby almost dying, or all of the challenges that will keep coming for the rest of your lives. Joey and I continue to learn this disabled life he was given and I’m incredibly thankful that despite every single one of his many challenges, he is one of the happiest kids I’ve ever known!

-Joey’s Mom