Our Melmark Story
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When our son, Christopher, began his educational program at Melmark School he was 16 years old. He started his journey there with friends he'd known from a time when they were all very young. Together, they had been through and accomplished much. Chris was diagnosed with a latent-onset regressive form of autism and ADHD when he was four. He lost most of his language and communication skills. His complex needs took us to many places. We had lots of diagnostics, educational programs and therapies, and we met the most wonderful people along the way-- people who have touched our hearts. They touched us because of the love and care they gave to our boy and because of the friendships they shared with him.
Melmark's program provides educational, vocational, residential, and medical treatment to people who have autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, cerebral palsy, and medical fragility.
The Chris Maurer Vocational Program was named in memory of our son after we lost him, suddenly, in 2009. Having had this most precious gift of a boy, who was a joyous, funny, and loving being, our family considers itself blessed. When we asked Chris how much he loved us, he usually responded by saying, "I love you 50 times," which was exactly enough, and always made us smile.
Equally, we have been blessed to share our lives with his friends--young people with whom he shared his deepest relationships and love. Many of these young adults are being served now, in the program named for Chris. Visiting Melmark and seeing those wonderful friends, caregivers, teachers, and therapists, refreshes sweet, sweet memories of our days with Christopher.
This year celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Melmark Program. The Dream Maker's Ball will be a highlight in this celebration and will be held on April 16th at Hyatt at the Bellevue in Philadelphia.
Please consider donating to support the Melmark family and their programs, like the Chris Maurer Vocational Program. Vocational and behavioral supports are provided to individuals with significant challenges. Say hello when you see us in the community. And know that it's worth it. I promise--fifty times.
Sincerely,
Mary O'Brien Maurer
For more information go to www.melmark.org
Melmark's program provides educational, vocational, residential, and medical treatment to people who have autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, cerebral palsy, and medical fragility.
The Chris Maurer Vocational Program was named in memory of our son after we lost him, suddenly, in 2009. Having had this most precious gift of a boy, who was a joyous, funny, and loving being, our family considers itself blessed. When we asked Chris how much he loved us, he usually responded by saying, "I love you 50 times," which was exactly enough, and always made us smile.
Equally, we have been blessed to share our lives with his friends--young people with whom he shared his deepest relationships and love. Many of these young adults are being served now, in the program named for Chris. Visiting Melmark and seeing those wonderful friends, caregivers, teachers, and therapists, refreshes sweet, sweet memories of our days with Christopher.
This year celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Melmark Program. The Dream Maker's Ball will be a highlight in this celebration and will be held on April 16th at Hyatt at the Bellevue in Philadelphia.
Please consider donating to support the Melmark family and their programs, like the Chris Maurer Vocational Program. Vocational and behavioral supports are provided to individuals with significant challenges. Say hello when you see us in the community. And know that it's worth it. I promise--fifty times.
Sincerely,
Mary O'Brien Maurer
For more information go to www.melmark.org
Organizer and beneficiary
Mary O'Brien Maurer
Organizer
West Chester, PA
Melmark Charitable Foundation
Beneficiary