About Claudia's Club

In March 2003, our youngest child, Claudia, was born. What began as a typical birth quickly turned into a journey filled with unexpected challenges. At just 9 months old, Claudia experienced her first seizure, leading to a series of health issues. After years searching for a diagnosis, numerous hospital stays, and almost losing her, our precious girl was just starting her lifelong battle.

We were informed that Claudia might never walk or talk, and developmental delays would be significant due to her brain development in utero. We faced years of therapies, doctor visits, and special schooling—none of which we had anticipated.

In 2007, Claudia began attending a wonderful local agency that offered a five-day school program. We enrolled her at age four, and within a year, she was walking. She began to thrive and, a few years later, started using a device to communicate her needs.

Despite numerous health challenges, Claudia has consistently demonstrated her resilience and strength. She has been supported by an amazing group of teachers and friends who encouraged her to stay active and engaged in school, just like any other child. We knew that school was a place where she would always flourish and find joy.

As graduation approached, we realized we needed to find a new program that mirrored the supportive environment she had known. Unfortunately, options were limited, and few could meet Claudia's needs.

As parents, our priority has always been Claudia's happiness and well-being, even if it meant navigating a new path as a family. We want her to be part of a community, surrounded by friends, engaged in daily routines, and most importantly, to feel active, accepted, and included.

With the support of our family, Claudia's siblings, and some exceptional friends knowledgeable about individuals with special needs, Claudia's Club was born.

~Mary and Tom~
Claudia's Parents