Resilient Parents, Resilient Children

Marsyl, a recent immigrant from Egypt, came to Children’s Council’s Special Needs Inclusion Program for help after becoming concerned that her three-year old son Obama, who was born prematurely, was exhibiting speech and other developmental delays. Counselor Lilla Nikolics helped Marsyl articulate priorities for Obama’s care and put together a plan to get him evaluated for his special needs. “I’m shy and afraid because my English isn’t good,” said Marsyl. “But Lilla went with me to visit different preschools. She never left me alone. Obama is getting speech therapy now. My dream was for Obama to be in the best preschool and now he is.”

Lilla also helped identify a better school for Marsyl’s 11-year old daughter Reem, who was being bullied at school. Lilla observed that “Marsyl has come a long way and so have Obama and Reem. I can see clearly what Marsyl’s dream is, what kind of education she wants for her children, and what she wants to attain for herself.”

It can be overwhelming for any parent to find someone they can trust to care for and teach their children. For Marsyl, having support and guidance through this process from Children’s Council is helping her create a new life for her family. Marsyl knows she has some hurdles ahead, but the good news is that Obama is talking up a storm.

This December, please help Children’s Council support parents of children with special needs by DONATING NOW!