Manitoba teen with disabilities hopes you’ll support her cause

BEAUSEJOUR — A Manitoba town is rallying around a teenager with disabilities in hopes of having her win a contest that would help her grow her businesses.

Sydney Deneka started Kozy Kritters by Sydney in 2012.

She has severe disabilities. She was diagnosed with Coffin-Siris syndrome, a developmental disability.

“It affects every aspect of her life,” said Heather Deneka, Sydney’s mom. “Our biggest hope is that she is a valued citizen and member of the community and she can contribute and give back.”

With the help of her school’s staff and family, the 17 year old makes personalized blankets for pets and babies as well as bakes dog treats.

She sells them at craft shows.

To date she has made more than 240 blankets and on Friday donated $200 from her revenue to the Winnipeg Pet Rescue shelter.

She entered the Just Watch Me video contest which highlights successes of entrepreneurs with disabilities.

As one of the finalists she is now relying on votes to win the first place prize of $1000 as well as a website design credit and business consultation.

PHOTO GALLERY: Support from her school and residents in Beausejour has been impressive.

Businesses have put up signs and even taken ads out in the local paper to try and help Sydney win.

“It is really humbling for my husband and I, we don’t know how to express it,” said Heather. “It is just amazing.”

Ecole Edward Schreyer has also held pep rallies to encourage students to vote as well as to show them the importance of acceptance.

“It would mean a lot for her at the community if she was the winner,” said Heather.

Sydney is in a tight race with an entrepreneur from Saskatchewan. Voting ends on February 17.

If you would like to vote for the Just Watch Me contest, click here.