Zion
Zion, affectionately known as “Z,” was just one month old when his life changed forever. A traumatic brain injury left him with challenges in vision, motor skills, and cognition. After three months in the hospital, Z moved to a foster care group home for medically fragile children. His future was uncertain, but his resilience was undeniable.
Everything changed when Blaire and Justin met Z. Though hesitant at first, they knew they wanted to give him the love and care he deserved. Blaire recalls, “I was scared. I didn’t know if I could handle a child with special needs, but we knew Z belonged with us.”
As Blaire and Justin began their journey as Z’s foster parents, they quickly realized the challenges they faced would require specialized support. When Z’s physical therapist recommended Southwest Human Development’s ADAPT Shop, they decided to seek help. From the moment Z entered the program, things began to shift. Sitting up on his own was a struggle, and his vision impairment made it difficult to interact with the world. The ADAPT Shop team collaborated with his vision specialist to create a custom chair that allowed him to sit independently for the first time.
This breakthrough gave Blaire and Justin hope. “Seeing Z sit up for the first time was incredible,” Blaire shares. “It opened up a whole new world for him.” Inspired by this progress, the team continued to find ways to support Z’s growth. They designed a sensory room filled with toys that catered to his visual needs, offering him a safe and stimulating environment to explore.
Music soon became another way for Z to connect with the world around him. Recognizing his love for sound, the ADAPT Shop built a resonance board that amplified the rhythms and beats he adored. Blaire recalls how much joy this brought him. “Z adores copying sounds—it’s not just fun for him; it’s how he engages with the world.”
One of the biggest challenges was communication. Z struggled to express his needs, but the ADAPT Shop created a communication device with buttons that allowed him to make choices. Initially, Z’s playful spirit led him to throw the buttons, but the team adapted by adding a custom stand, ensuring the device could meet his needs while allowing him to remain his spirited self.
With every challenge they faced, Blaire and Justin found unwavering support from the ADAPT Shop team. Beyond creating custom solutions, Southwest Human Development introduced them to the Lending Closet, a program that allowed them to borrow equipment while navigating lengthy insurance approval processes. These resources gave Blaire and Justin the confidence they needed to care for Z and help him thrive.
Over time, this support gave Blaire and Justin the courage to make a life-changing decision. They officially adopted Z and his older sister, creating a forever home filled with love and opportunity. Blaire reflects, “Southwest Human Development was there every step of the way. They gave us the tools, encouragement, and reassurance we needed. I don’t know what we would have done without them.”
Today, Z is a curious and joyful toddler who loves bubbles, peek-a-boo, and light-up toys. His custom chair allows him to join family meals, and his communication device helps him express his needs and preferences. “Z is thriving,” Blaire says with a smile. “And when he’s happy, we’re all happy.”
Z’s journey is a testament to the life-changing impact of Southwest Human Development. The ADAPT Shop not only gave him the tools to overcome his challenges but also gave Blaire and Justin the support they needed to embrace parenthood with confidence. For Blaire, the impact of Southwest Human Development goes far beyond assistive devices. “They’re more than a resource—they’re a partner. They’ve given us hope and helped us create a brighter future for Z.”
With Southwest Human Development by their side, Z and his family face the future with resilience, love, and unwavering support.