We’d like to introduce you to Jacob. This handsome and ambitious young man will be getting a spectacular bedroom makeover from Sunshine on a Ranney Day. Although Jacob has endured many challenges in his short nineteen years, he hasn’t let them thwart his energetic and loving spirit! Despite having Down Syndrome, undergoing over 100 surgical procedures and surviving Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, he has accomplished a plethora of high honors in advocacy for children’s healthcare, educational reform and in several sports through the Special Olympics. He has won three gold medals; one for the 50 M Dash, one in Softball and one for the 50 M walk! With his mom by his side, Jacob has been involved in media awareness events with CBS, CNN, Fox and The Associate Press. He is also involved in many organizations including Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research, the National Down Syndrome Congress, the Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta, North Metro Miracle League, Georgia Autism Society, Autism Speaks, Sibley Heart Center, Make-a-Wish Foundation and Camp Sunshine. The list goes on as he has dedicated his life to reaching his ultimate dream: that society will see him for his abilities and not his disabilities. This is his dream, not only for himself, but for all children. He does not let disability, illness, chemotherapy or anything else get in the way. Although he completed 3.5 years of chemotherapy, he has 4.5 more years of monitoring before he can be considered cured from cancer.
Despite having Down Syndrome, undergoing over 100 surgical procedures and surviving Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, he has accomplished a plethora of high honors in advocacy for children’s healthcare, educational reform and in several sports through the Special Olympics.
It will not stop him from achieving his goals and working hard to make a difference. Jacob is adventurous and spirited, enjoying the wonders of teenage living including listening to music, going on roller coasters, attending sporting events and attending Prom at Night to Shine. He loves reading, playing the bells and xylophone, hanging out with his friends, dancing in his tuxedo and playing baseball. We love his smile and warm heart. Nothing will give us greater pleasure than spreading a little sunshine through a dream makeover especially for him!
