Dream To Go Far Press Release
Dream To Go Far : A New Resource to Support Families of Young Children Experiencing Disability
“Do I ever wish there’d been a book like Dream to Go Far when we were in the NICU!! Because books show us what’s possible. They help us discover, and they help us to dream.” – Paul Carson, parent/board chair, FACT Oregon
Portland, OR: FACT Oregon knows that early support is crucial for families experiencing disability, developmental delays, or special health needs. The fear and isolation that can come from a new diagnosis can leave families feeling powerless and confused. Parents often share these sentiments when they reach out to FACT Oregon for support:
When we received [our daughter’s] diagnosis, I had no context for what it meant for her or us. I feared she might not walk, talk, or count to three. – ED
When our son was born, we didn’t know that he had a disability. We were dealing with a medical condition that was super challenging and that didn’t have any kind of clear outcome. – PC
We also know that connecting with other families and receiving tools designed especially for them can be life-changing:
Our family was fortunate to connect early with people who held high expectations, showed us that disability is natural, and modeled how to navigate the next step and the step after that. – ED
I’ve been inspired to think bigger for my family – to be intentional about our supports and how they are moving our boys towards their hopes and dreams. – AW
Now FACT Oregon has a wonderful new tool to help support families — Dream To Go Far, a storybook written by families, for families. FACT Oregon is excited to partner with physicians, clinicians, therapists, and early childhood providers to get this new resource into the hands of families. This inclusive and representational storybook, illustrated by local artist Allie Sullberg, encourages children and adults to see that disability is a natural part of the human experience, that everyone deserves to live a whole, full life, and that with the right supports, ALL children can reach for the sky! It inspires and equips parents and caregivers to become their children’s greatest advocates and cheerleaders!
Families and community partners in the medical and early childhood spheres have often expressed their desire for better resources to support families through diagnosis and the early years. This storybook offers that resource.
Dream To Go Far is available in English and Spanish. To learn more, CLICK HERE. For virtual readings, interviews, and other media requests please contact:
Molly Brown, Communications Coordinator
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