A family of four that lives in Havelock, Ontario is coping with the stress that comes with raising two boys- both with special needs. The mother, Jenn Fulford, posted a photo to her Facebook showcasing how overwhelmed she was feeling and that post led to a quick response from friends.
“We created a Go-Fund-Me account because we need to raise some money to get this over and done with so they can get on with the prospect of being a family,” said friend, Karen Irvine.
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The Fulford family said they could use the funds to buy to buy a wheelchair accessible van, renovate their home with an accessible bedroom and bathroom with a lift, as well as put a ramp on her back deck.
“The ramp on the front of the house eventually will have to be re done. The deck fell off the back of the house and we need to have a second exit for Parker so we need to rebuild that deck and we need to put a ramp on,” said Fulford.
When Jenn met her husband 18 years ago they knew right away they wanted to start a family. After enduring 2 miscarriages, they decided to adopt Jenn’s nephew, Ayden. He is 7 years old and has ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome and sensory processing disorder. One month later Jenn became pregnant and gave birth to her son Parker, 17 weeks early. Parker is 5 years old and has cerebral palsy and censoring processing disorder.
“He was a very sick little boy. He had brain bleeds day two, he had a stroke, he was sent over to Sick Kids for surgery because he had a perforation in his bowel,” said Fulford.
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The Fulford family relies on a single income, making medical supplies and living accommodations difficult to afford. Karen Irvine says that she hopes they can all come together to help out.
Despite all the challenges, Jenn says that she wouldn’t change anything about her children.
“The love of a special needs child is the most incredible love ever because it’s pure and honest,” said Fulford.
To date the Go Fund Me page has raised $350 of their goal of $50 000 and their Facebook support page continues to grow, with over 500 members.