Heard at the Playhouse

One December 5, 2013, I found out my daughter Hope was going to be born with Down syndrome. At the end of December, I saw a special about GiGi’s Playhouse on the news. At the time I was completely distraught, lost, confused and alone. While watching the special I immediately tried to contact GiGi’s to find out where they were located and when I could go visit. Luckily I found GiGi’s Playhouse Oak Forest, now Tinley Park. After going for my first visit, I knew this place would be my second home. The warmth, openness and acceptance is incomparable to anything I’ve ever experienced before. I knew this would be a weekly, if not more frequent, visit for my family.

Now about a year and a half later, I have met my second family. We attend 2 & Under every Friday that we can make and on Saturdays sometimes as well. I have learned so much from every parent and child that has walked through the door. GiGi’s Playhouse is the place to see the future for Hope. I can’t wait for Hope to grow and be able to have her own experiences with her friends. I know with all the other programs offered, Hope will flourish. GiGi’s Playhouse has made such a dramatic change in my family’s life for the better. I am happy, enthusiastic, optimistic and definitely not alone.