Black and white photo of male child with a parent outside

Jeremy S, age 7

Photograph by Carolina Mascarin (2024)

Jeremy is a happy go-lucky boy. He radiates peace and love. Some of his favorite activities are having his people close and car rides with a slight breeze. If water is nearby, Jeremy will be in it. Whether it’s the ocean, the pool, or a lake, he loves playing in the water.
Jeremy is the definition of a fighter. He is diagnosed with Menkes Disease, which can cause slow growth, seizures, and other symptoms. He has spent nearly three years in hospital care.                
His family is in awe of how strong Jeremy is. Mom reflects on his sensitivity to others saying at times during his hospitalization he would sense her exhaustion and flash her a smile or a little giggle to give her the strength to keep going.  Jeremy’s family calls him their warrior. He pushes them to keep working every day for his well-being and to give him the best quality of life and opportunities possible.
“Jeremy is a fighter, and even though he doesn’t speak, he communicates with his smiles, looks, and sounds. He is part of this world just like you and me, but with some special needs,” says his mom.

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.