ANIYAHMy daughter Aniyah Taylor has benefited greatly from the
“I AM SOMEBODY! FOUNDATION”. This foundation has allowed her to be actively engaged in many physical activities in which she may not normally get to participate. She participates annually in the I Am Somebody! Bowling Event and she loves it! Ed is amazing and he inspires other children and young adults with disabilities by, ‘’proving that disabilities can be capabilities!” No Limits! Aniyah’s Mom KJ We always have so much fun at the “I AM SOMEBODY! FOUNDATION EVENTS”!!! My uncle Ed’s “I AM SOMEBODY!” events are super fun! KJ and his Mom |
KristianSince the day that they meet the two of them has be inseparable. We met Ed from the physical therapist through whom they both were getting therapy services. Since then, Ed has become more than just a role model to my grandson Kristian, he’s more like his big brother instead. Everything that Ed does with his “I AM SOMEBODY! FOUNDATION”, Kristian is always attending and supporting all the events. Kristian looks up to his big brother and is inspired by all that “Ed has overcome with having Cerebral Palsy and he continues to motivate other kids with disabilities by showing them that they can do anything if they believe in themselves”. Kristian’s Grandmother (aka G Mom) |
ANYLAH
My daughter Anylah loves her uncle Ed so much. At just five years old, she’s looking up to him already. The fact that my brother NEVER gives up on himself, makes me so proud of him. Throughout all the obstacles that he faces daily, he finds a way around them and keeps pushing forward. With his “I AM SOMEBODY! FOUNDATION”, he’s showing my daughter and other children with disabilities that they can live the life that they want and not one that dictates how they should live. Anylah’s Mom Principal Baker Gateway Michael School Ed Penn is a former Gateway Michael student who exemplifies what we strive to teach our students; to become good citizens and not allow a diagnosis or limitations to prevent them from doing their best with his “I AM SOMEBODY! FOUNDATION”, which motivates children to go beyond their disabilities to reach their abilities. He is both a mentor and a role model to our students. They are encouraged because they identify with him. He practices what he preaches. He rock climbs, lives on his own, and takes trips to Disney World. He serves as a consultant to my staff by helping us understand both the physical and emotional impact of living with a disability. Ed Penn supports our school financially when the budget isn’t enough by funding uniforms, field trips, school celebrations, Christmas, or whatever the students decide to participate in. Ed Penn is our biggest cheerleader. He means the world to all of us; students, staff, and parents. I am encouraged by his spirit, his resiliency, and his determination that will not allow him to give up on whatever it is that he sets his mind to. Ed Penn is a true Gateway Michael hero!!! Principal, Baker |