Katie, now 20 years old, began her journey with Brightway shortly after her diagnosis of PDD-NOS on the autism spectrum at 2½ years old. Her family immediately saw the difference a structured, therapeutic environment in our Early Childhood Program made in Katie’s life. She later transitioned to a public school district program, but by middle school, those settings could no longer meet her growing needs.
She returned to Brightway, but the COVID-19 pandemic soon brought significant challenges. Katie regressed, stopped speaking, and her behaviors intensified. Even with a dedicated team, daily routines became overwhelming. In 2023, her family explored our children’s residential program, and in the weeks to follow, Katie moved into one of our homes. It proved to be the best decision they could have made.
One of the most meaningful changes has been Katie’s newfound love of baking. She never showed interest before, but with support, she discovered a new skill, joy and confidence. Now, baking has become a cherished weekend tradition with her family. “What may seem like such a simple thing, a baking class, has changed our lives,” her mother says. A simple activity that reflects something much bigger: the confidence, stability, and happiness Katie has gained through Brightway.