Empowering Parents: A Journey of Hope and Support After a Child's Diagnosis

"When my child received their diagnosis, the feelings I experienced as a parent were overwhelming.”

For many parents, like John, receiving a diagnosis for their child can be enormous and shattering. It’s hard to know what to do next. Fortunately, John was already aware of Waterloo Region Family Network (WRFN) so he was able to reach out for some direction. He was introduced to Erin Sutherland, a Family Resource Coach, and his family’s journey with WRFN began.

“Erin’s caring and welcoming personality, in addition to her empathetic approach reduced our anxiety and fear of unknowns. She helped us understand the next steps to take including funding options, common issues, and approximate timelines for waitlists.”

Erin told John and his family about available programs, therapies and services offered in our community. After meeting with Erin, John’s family felt confident in the steps they needed to take, and things felt much more manageable.

“We are thankful to Erin for providing us with great advice and recommendations. As a result, we qualified for funding and were able to get the required services in place which greatly assisted our child’s development and transition into school.”

Fast forward a few years…John is now giving back as a WRFN volunteer Parent Mentor and Board member.

“I am honoured to be able to give back to a wonderful organization that provides great support and benefits to a diverse community.”

As we approach another year, WRFN is committed to providing positive impact to individuals and families with exceptional needs. Your support empowers families like John’s to find the essential guidance and support they so desperately need.

Your generous support is an investment in hope, empowerment, and brighter futures. Please consider making a donation, today, and help provide the available assistance and guidance that changes lives.

This year, a generous donor will again match $10,000 of funds raised by December 31. 

Thank you for being part of the journey and for making stories like John’s possible. Together, we can continue to transform lives.

With gratitude,