Mallory Padgett, age 10

Above: Photograph by Lynzie Burdick (2021); Bellow: Photograph by Katie Hart (2020)

Girl reads a book in a chairMallory Padgett is a happy, energetic 10-year-old. She’s a people person who seeks out adventure. She loves climbing trees and eating pizza.

Mallory’s favorite thing to do is go to the beach. Luckily for her, her grandparents live at the beach in Edisto. While at the beach, Mallory spends her time swimming, building sandcastles, and taking walks to hunt for treasures—she collects shells and takes them home. She never wants to stay still while at the beach!

Mallory has a diagnosis of asthma and ADHD. At age seven, she was diagnosed with autism. Frequently girls are diagnosed at a later age due to how symptoms of autism present.

Mallory’s favorite person is her brother, Austin. He takes her fishing, and they play in the pool together. At school, Mallory enjoys recess.

Family Connection of South Carolina provides services and resources to families who have a child with a disability or specialized healthcare need. Since 1990 we have served more than 100,000 families and today our services are needed more than ever. We focus on parent-to-parent support, guidance with navigating the complex healthcare system, and assistance with school meetings and special education plans.

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