Bello Machre’s Ray of Hope Program Supports Young TBI Survivor
When Zack, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivor, needed support communicating and focusing outside of school, his family looked to Bello Machre’s Ray of Hope Program to fund an essential resource.
A Young TBI Survivor Overcomes the Odds
At the age of six, Zach was in a tragic bicycle accident. His mother, Angie, remembers the time all too well, saying, “The doctors told me he would never walk or talk again. He had gone through two brain surgeries and had a feeding tube. I was so scared.”
After three months in intensive care and much more in the hospital and rehabilitation center, Zach was walking and saying words. “He has come so far,” adds Angie.
A TBI Resource to Improve Quality of Life
At his school, High Road Academy in Laurel, Maryland, Zach received special education services. The school provided Zach with incredible support as he relearned everything. However, because of the traumatic brain injury, he struggled with concentration. A school-provided iPad made all the difference, helping Zach focus and learn sight words, math, puzzles, matching, counting money, and so much more.
Unfortunately, Zach had to leave the iPad at school and didn’t have one at home. Attempts to communicate and focus often ended in frustration. That’s when Bello Machre stepped in with its Ray of Hope program.
Ray of Hope provides funding to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities for needs ranging from specialized summer camps to physical therapy to adaptive equipment. Individuals and families leverage Ray of Hope funding to help improve the quality of life of their loved ones with disabilities.
With a Ray of Hope grant, Angie was able to purchase an iPad for Zach to use at home. Angie recalls, “When Zach saw the new iPad, his face lit up immediately. He picked it up and knew just what to do with it!”
A crucial TBI resource, the iPad helped this determined child as he continues to make important strides. Says Angie, “The iPad made such a difference for Zach. Anything to help him as he continues to grow and develop is a Godsend!”
A Lifetime of Loving Care
Now, at age 20, Zach once again has turned to Bello Machre. He is now receiving Personal Supports Services and working one-on-one with his Direct Support Professional, Lawanda, to engage in meaningful activities that continue to enrich his life. From gym sessions to park walks and trips to the movies, Zach is thriving as a young adult. His mother, Angie, recalls, “Who knows where we’d be if Zach didn’t have the iPad to help him at home. Bello Machre has been there since the beginning.”
Today, Zach’s journey is still evolving. Through Bello Machre, his mom is training to become his primary support, deepening their bond and strengthening his connection to the organization. “Zach and his family’s journey with us has come full circle,” explains Chris Engler, Bello Machre Community Services Director. “From receiving Ray of Hope funding to enjoying engaging activities through our Personal Supports program, and now with his mom becoming a Direct Support Professional — that’s exactly what we love to see.”
For more than 50 years, Bello Machre has offered children, adults, and seniors with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Rett Syndrome, epilepsy, TBI, and more, with the services, opportunities, and support they need to live full, independent, rich lives.