On August 17, 1998, our lives changed forever. Cole entered the world far too early at just 27 weeks, weighing only 2 pounds. He was tiny, fragile, and fighting for his life. Those first days turned into weeks, and weeks into two and a half long months in the NICU—filled with fear, prayers, and hope we held onto with everything we had.
Bringing Cole home felt like crossing a finish line we weren't sure we'd ever reach. But in many ways, it was just the beginning of our story.
The early years were filled with appointments, therapies, and relentless determination. After three years of intensive therapy, Cole was diagnosed with autism, mild cerebral palsy, and an intellectual disability. It was a lot to take in—but by then, we already knew something deeper: Cole was here for a reason, and he was going to change us.
The years that followed were marked by both challenges and victories. There were hard days—days filled with uncertainty, exhaustion, and questions about the future. But there were also beautiful days—moments of breakthrough, laughter, and connection that meant more than words can express.
Through it all, Cole has been our greatest teacher. He has taught us how to celebrate the smallest milestones, how to love without conditions, and how to slow down and truly see the beauty in each moment. He has shown us what patience looks like, what kindness requires, and what joy really is.
Raising Cole has brought both deep responsibility and overwhelming joy. It has shaped our hearts, our priorities, and our purpose.
More than anything, our greatest desire is simple: for Cole to have a life filled with love, kindness, and acceptance—a life where he is valued, included, and surrounded by a community that sees him for exactly who he is.
And that desire… is what continues to guide our story.
Why The Haven?
For years, we carried a vision of what life could look like for our son and others like him—a place where each day is meaningful, where friendships are real, and where every person is valued. After being part of many wonderful programs, we felt a clear calling to create something more. To step out in faith and build the place we had been dreaming of.
We call it The Haven—a peaceful place of safety and security.
At its core, The Haven is a place where every ability finds purpose and joy. Our friends (participants), along with staff, volunteers, and families, come together as one community. We believe parents are an important part of that community—encouraged, supported, and included in the journey, not standing on the outside of it.
Every day is filled with meaningful experiences through bible study, praise and worship, music, art, movement, cooking, gardening, and opportunity to serve others in the community.
We believe every life has value, every ability has purpose, and joy is meant to be shared.
