Helping Parent 2 Parent Support More Families

Our Journey with Forest

When our son Forest was born, we were immediately thrown into a world we never expected. Within days, doctors discovered a rare genetic syndrome that required open-heart surgery at just seven days old — and then another at two months. By six months, Forest had gone into respiratory and cardiac arrest and needed seven minutes of CPR to bring him back. Eventually, he received a tracheostomy and a ventilator to help him breathe — both of which he still relies on today.

My wife Gladys and I spent a year and a half living in the hospital, navigating endless procedures, sleepless nights, and the kind of uncertainty that shakes you to your core. We learned to manage medical equipment, advocate fiercely in meetings, and celebrate victories most people never have to think about — like the first time Forest laughed again after surgery.

There were moments that felt impossibly heavy. Yet in those moments, we also discovered the strength of community — something that Parent 2 Parent of Colorado embodies so powerfully.

Finding Connection and Purpose

I joined the Parent 2 Parent advisory board recently, but even in a short time, it’s been deeply meaningful. When you’re raising a child with complex medical needs, it can often feel like you live in a different world from most families. Finding other parents who get it — who understand what it’s like to live with feeding tubes, hospital alarms, and countless care plans — has been life-changing.

Through P2P, I’ve met parents who remind me that while our paths are difficult, they’re also full of incredible love, resilience, and humor. I’ve been inspired by families who’ve faced similar challenges and come out stronger — and it’s helped me realize how much our experience can now help others.

That’s why I’m so proud to support Parent 2 Parent. We’ve learned so much the hard way — from navigating hospitals and insurance to finding moments of joy in chaos — and now I get to help other parents who are just beginning this journey. No one should have to face it alone.

Why I’m Fundraising

Parent 2 Parent of Colorado connects families of children and adults with disabilities or special healthcare needs with others who understand. They offer mentorship, emotional support, and a safe space for parents to share knowledge and encouragement.

Your donation directly helps sustain that network — ensuring that when a parent feels scared, lost, or overwhelmed, there’s someone on the other end of the line who truly understands.

Forest has taught me what resilience really looks like. He’s shown me that life can be extraordinary in ways you never planned. With your support, we can help more families find the same strength, community, and hope that Parent 2 Parent has given us.

Thank you for helping me reach my $1,000 goal — and for standing with families like ours.

**IMPORTANT** When you donate, please select “Parent to Parent of CO” from the available options in the designation dropdown: