Our Impact

The foundation has participated in a wide range of activities since its creation. In the initial stages of the foundation, we focused on laying the foundation for ensuring we thrived and made a significant impact in our community. We are well on our way to doing just that!

Founded in January of 2018, our mission is to advocate for children with disabilities and special needs. In addition, programs that aid in assisting these children in their pursuit for self-sufficiency, independence, and the highest quality of life.

In January 2019, we found out about a study that the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, was conducting. This study was focused on the NRXN1 Gene and its effects on Autism. Braelyn had the chromosomal deletion 2P16.3. A chromosomal deletion within this region has also been associated with missing the Neurexin 1 (NRXN1) gene. Some studies suggest that this plays a part in Autism, Intellectual Disability, Anxiety Disorders, and other issues. As her father, I have the 2P16.3 deletion as well. Though I am a carrier of the deletion, I do not display any of the developmental and physiological effects of the deletion as Braelyn was affected by it. We provided our DNA samples to the university to further their research in advances regarding this deletion.

In March 2020, we were able to discuss Braelyn’s story with the Program Coordinator for the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) from Fort Jackson, South Carolina. The EFMP is a program dedicated to helping service members with family members that are special needs. This program allocates resources such as recurring therapy and specialized programs and providers to meet the needs of their condition, among other things. Despite the effectiveness and importance of this program, they continue to find their annual budget and funding being cut.

In July 2020, we donated proceeds that we received from our first annual 5K to a chosen recipient. We attempted to host the First 5K in April of 2020. This was during the on-going Covid-19 Pandemic. Because of this we had to cancel a physical event and move it to a Virtual 5K. Our recipient was the Pre-K Special Services Department via The Lexington County School District One Educational Foundation. Braelyn was a part of this program. This program provided recurring therapy to aid in preparing her for Kindergarten. This program helps many young children and is an invaluable resource.

In December 2020, amid Covid, we have continued our advocacy efforts. We had spoken to the Program Coordinator for EFMP at Fort Rucker, Alabama. We shared Braelyn’s story with them. This was where Braelyn was first part of EFMP, was during my time in flight school, at Fort Rucker. The resources, information, and care provided were second-to-none. It was important to create awareness of those who may not be aware of this valuable program.

Throughout 2021…. we continued to serve as a resource for children with impairing conditions. We are working with local and national military programs to shed light on resources available to servicemembers, military families, and others to help with their special needs loved ones. We are planning to attend nationwide conferences focused on the 2P16.3 chromosomal deletion. Additionally, as we continue to grow, it is our intent to broaden our foundations base through the creation of an advisory board with experts in fields relating to this impairing condition, but others as well. The reality is that this chromosomal deletion is very rare. To further be an impact, we want to be a resource for programs, families, children affected not only by this deletion but other areas as well.

On October 10, 2022, we held our 3rd 5K. This 5K was very significant due to it being the 10 year anniversary since Braelyn’s untimely passing. Our focus for this 5K was to focus on fundraising efforts for a inclusive playground in Lexington, SC.

April, 2023 we conducted an 80’s themed oyster roast at Pearlz Oyster Bar in Columbia, SC for our continued fundraising efforts for the inclusive playground.

December, 2023 we purchased every needed item off of the Shawn Jenkins, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), wish list. These items included toothpaste, shampoo, swaddle blankets, unisex onesies, toys, and many more items. We were fortunate to do so as they are making a tremendous impact in the Charleston Community to the care of these precious newborns.

Our next 5K, is on for September 28, 2024. We are still continuing towards our ultimate goal of raising funds for our inclusive playground project in Lexington, SC.