Jessica Farley - Help for Wendy

Wendy Stacy is a nationally recognized expert in the field of language and literacy. She is an ASHA-certified and licensed speech-language pathologist, ALTA-certified academic language therapist and instructor, IDA-certified structured literacy dyslexia specialist, and a licensed dyslexia therapist in Texas. For more than 25 years, Wendy has provided assessment and therapeutic intervention for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning difficulties, early intervention for at-risk students, and structured literacy training for teachers and therapists. She is also a published author of several popular structured literacy curricula, including Roots to Reading, Barebones Grammar for Reading and Writing, and 6 Syllables to Reading Success, and has created numerous learning tools and games. Wendy is a sought-after public speaker and trainer, regularly presenting at national conferences and providing professional development for educators across the country. She was appointed to the Oklahoma Dyslexia and Education Task Force, where she served as Chair of the Assessment Committee and contributed to the Oklahoma Dyslexia Handbook. Wendy’s impact extends far beyond her professional achievements. She is a mentor, a friend, and a tireless advocate for children with exceptional learning needs, including my own daughter with Down syndrome and my niece with dyslexia. Wendy’s passion for helping others is matched only by her kindness and dedication. She tailors her approach to each student, focusing on rebuilding self-esteem and empowering them to advocate for their own learning needs. Her work has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students, families, and educators. Recently, Wendy has faced a series of traumatic events that have taken a toll on her health. She is now battling several auto-immune illnesses that have made daily life incredibly challenging. Despite her own struggles, Wendy continues to support her daughter, who also has Down syndrome and runs a small jewelry business. Wendy’s health has declined to the point where her primary care doctor has urgently referred her to the Mayo Clinic. While this offers hope, the financial burden of travel, lodging, and medical care is overwhelming, especially as Wendy’s illness has prevented her from working consistently. Her appointments at the Mayo Clinic will require two or three trips, each involving significant travel, lodging, and related expenses. In addition to these costs, Wendy expects to lose about 30 days of income while she is away receiving care. She also needs someone to accompany her, adding to the expenses. Wendy is determined to regain her health so she can continue supporting her daughter and the many students who rely on her. I’m reaching out to the Down syndrome and exceptional learning communities, and anyone who feels moved by Wendy’s story, to ask for your support. Any contribution will help Wendy access the care she needs and continue her incredible work. Thank you for considering a gift to help Wendy on her journey to healing.