Through a Sister’s Eyes

THROUGH THEIR EYES…

Recently, we were having a conversation about some phenomenal young women who volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford who all happen to be sisters of Playhouse participants.  We realized that each of these young ladies basically grew up WITH the Playhouse, and we thought it would be interesting to get their perspective on how GiGi’s had impacted their siblings.  We found their passion, dedication and love for their sisters to be inspiring, so we wanted to share their stories with our supporters.  If you read these touching tributes and find yourself wanting to share your own experiences at the Rockford Playhouse, we encourage you to send your thoughts to rockford@gigisplayhouse.org.

GiGi’s has had a tremendous impact on my sister, Julia. For example, she has developed her professional skills at GiGi U, GiGi’s Career Development program. This program has provided her with the knowledge and opportunities to intern and find a job. She even landed a job at her last internship site, Camp Winnebago! She has tried so many new things through the programs offered at GiGi’s, such as karate, where she is now a brown belt. She is also involved in theatre at GiGi’s, where she has starred in 4 shows and wants to be in more! She has gained many lifelong friendships, regularly hangs out with GiGi’s friends, and is always Facetiming or texting someone she met from GiGi’s! I’ve seen her grow exponentially through all of the programs she has been able to participate in, and it makes me proud as her sister to see her excel! I can’t thank GiGi’s Playhouse enough for everything they do for children and adults with Down Syndrome. – Grace Berlage

To this day, I can still recall fondly the first time my sister Colleen Maher and I walked through GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford. The Playhouse was in the midst of being built. There were concrete walls, gray everywhere you looked, and so much progress ahead. However, more than anything, I remember the pure joy on Colleen’s face. Her smile only spread wider as my mom explained what a safe haven and social outlet GiGi’s Playhouse would become for her soon. As the years have progressed, I have had the privilege of witnessing Colleen flourish in programs ranging from family night to Cheer Gems to TeenTastics, and her personal favorite, the annual GiGi’s Gala. Whether she has pom-poms in hand or a microphone as she speaks to hundreds of her biggest supporters at the Gala, GiGi’s has done nothing but encourage and support her success and growth. The Playhouse makes a strong point of making each individual with Down syndrome aware of their brilliant uniqueness because the brightness these extra chromosomes bring to our community too often goes unnoticed. GiGi’s Playhouse has made Colleen proud to have Down syndrome, and as her sister, I will be forever grateful. – Caitlyn Maher

I have found GiGi’s Playhouse to be a great place for my sister Cara and my whole family. When we first started going to the Playhouse, I would sit on the couch and think about how lucky Cara was to find a place where she could hang out with some of the most incredible people that Cara could relate to like no other. I loved watching Cara meet new people who have grown into her closest friends that she loves so much. Not only has Cara made some life-long relationships, but I have also met some of my close friends here at GiGi’s. The Playhouse has allowed me to make bonds with other people that also have a sibling with Down syndrome, which has empowered me to be a better advocate and friend for my sister. During our time here, I’ve enjoyed helping with Teen Time, Teentastics, Art Explosion, and even hanging out and watching how amazing the Cheer Gems are! I have loved every minute I’ve spent at GiGi’s. I love GiGi’s for everything it does and accomplishes for people with Down syndrome, and I’m glad it is always a place where my sister can feel accepted and loved for exactly who she is. – Katie Jensen