Finding Our Way Back

Finding Our Way Back

by Ashley Merrick – Liam’s Mom

Thank you, Family Hope Foundation, for blessing our family with such a beautiful gift of compassion, love, and support in our time of need.

The pandemic was a perfect storm for Liam.  He struggled with emotional trauma, new and worsening mental health issues, and two years of profound learning loss that resulted in significant social and academic deficiencies.  It broke my heart to see him simultaneously hurting in so many different ways.

I desperately wanted to do whatever I could to help him find his laughter, peace, and happiness again.  Sadly, however, the services Liam really needed were also very expensive.  I couldn’t afford to put him in private therapy to cover all his needs.  I had to prioritize his emotional, mental, and social well-being over his academics.  Honestly, I felt like I was failing Liam as a parent because I could not afford all the therapies he desperately needed.

A burden has been lifted.  Receiving a scholarship from Family Hope Foundation has given me the ability to get Liam services through Higher Horizons Tutoring to help address his educational needs before he regresses any further academically.  This way, I can continue to manage his emotional well-being and, at the same time, focus on his educational needs.

I know that it will most likely take several years of hard work and dedication to recoup the lost skills and heal from the trauma.  Still, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and tonight I can rest a little easier as I feel a renewed sense of hope and gratitude.

Thank you, Family Hope Foundation, for blessing our family with such a beautiful gift of compassion, love, and support in our time of need.

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