Black and white photo of a young adult looking straight ahead in a plaid shirt and dark jacket

Amelia H, age 19

Photograph by Hannah Carlisle (2024)

Amelia, who lovingly calls herself “Mema,” is a beacon of tenacity and happiness. From early on, Amelia’s vibrant spirit would shine through the simplest moments—like the first time her parents heard her laugh—a sound that felt like a divine affirmation that everything would be okay. Over the years, Amelia has continued to amaze everyone around her with her milestones, such as learning to use a walker.
Amelia knows no limits to what she can achieve. This was apparent when she taught herself to crawl and balance, pushing towards her goal of walking independently. Her lack of pons in her brain affects her balance and made learning this task even more impressive. Her determination is a daily source of inspiration for her family, showing relentless spirit in overcoming every obstacle.
Amelia’s impact on her family and community is profoundly positive. Her infectious love for music, long neighborhood walks with her parents, and the special bond she shares with her older brother Aiden, have deeply enriched their lives.
Amelia’s family hopes that sharing her experiences will encourage greater empathy and understanding, ensuring that individuals like Amelia are given the respect and opportunities they deserve. Family Connection of South Carolina has played an invaluable role in their journey, providing not just resources but a community that understands and supports each other when facing life’s challenges.

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.