Ten years ago, Jason was a healthy and active 21-year-old until he came down with a severe case of bacterial meningitis. The infection was so serious that he was in a coma for a week, eventually leaving him cognitively impaired, deaf and nonverbal. Fast forward to this fall when along with his parents, Amanda and Nathan, they all found themselves as guests at Family House.  They were staying here for a few weeks while Jason underwent surgery for dystonia – a movement disorder that causes the muscles to contract. The hope was that this surgery would stimulate his brain, calm his nerves and muscles and improve his mobility.

Hailing from Spartanburg, South Carolina, we were firsthand witnesses to the power of family support.  That combined with the extraordinary medical care he received at UNC Hospitals that included Dr. Eldad Hadar and his team, this will be a long journey for Jason and his family, yet one they are tackling with aplomb, resilience and lots of love.

Mom Amanda shared, “We’ve never stayed in a place like this. The kindness and resources are amazing. This place heals your soul. It’s filled me with gratitude and made me more gracious, kind and compassionate. Staying here has also been healing for Jason.  We hope he’ll be walking in a year.”

We wish Jason and his entire family only the best as they weather this long family journey together as one.