“After more than ten years of trying, my husband and I finally received the exciting news that we would have a child. But Jaison’s birth was not the joyous occasion we’d hoped and prayed for. He arrived three months early and at one pound, doctors had little hope that Jaison would survive. In fact, doctors callously told me that if Jaison lived, he would remain in a vegetative state. I loved my son and stayed by his side each moment. But it felt like those around me placed no value on his life. It was a very difficult time. In fact, I became a single parent a few months after Jaison came home.
My mother-in-law predicted from day one that Jaison would be an evangelist. And he is. Although Jaison suffers from cerebral palsy, is cortically blind, and is wheelchair-bound, he shares the gospel through his actions and words. He recites Bible verses and has an admirable, infectious faith. He says, “The Lord is my shepherd. I have everything I need.” He wakes up in the middle of the night and wants the Bible read to him. My boy has won many souls to Jesus. For us, we doubt. For Jaison, he believes. He is an inspiration to me.
Jaison is now 16 years old. Caring for Jaison can be very exhausting, both emotionally and physically. It’s almost like I am always caring for him or overseeing his care.
Jill’s House gives me a chance to take good care of myself and to recharge. It’s a worry-free time for me. I don’t wonder if Jaison is getting his medicines or eating well. I know he is enjoying the pool, interacting with friends and being well cared for, and when he comes back home I am able to take better care of him.
As for Jaison, he gets stars in his eyes at the mere mention of Jill’s House. One of his most consistent challenges is fending off boredom. But Jill’s House has activities and interactions to keep Jaison engaged. When I drop him off, he blows kisses goodbye and doesn’t look back. One time when I collected him, Jaison even exclaimed, “Oh no!” He was so sorry that his Jill’s House weekend was over.
At Jill’s House, Jaison is valued and appreciated for who he is. He is no longer isolated and neither am I. That’s why I believe Jill’s House is a blessing given by God. Families of children with special needs have to draw strength from somewhere, and Jill’s House is an earthly heaven that has been given to my family.” –Lissy Joseph
