Designer Projects Archives - Sunshine on a Ranney Day

Mt. Zion UMC Preschool

Written by Joe Lane on September 18, 2024. Posted in Artisan Design Studio, Bin There Dump That Atlanta, Community Projects, Construction Partners, Designer Projects, ServiceWise Electric, The Wall Nut.

Founded in 1973

In 1973, Mt. Zion United Methodist Church opened one of the first preschools in the East Cobb area. Today the program continues to be known for its commitment to quality early childhood education and loving care for children from 12 months through 5 years of age.

Since its inception, the preschool has been recognized for its commitment to excellence in Early Childhood Education. It has earned national recognition as a N.A.E.Y.C. accredited program and is also recognized as a ‘School of Excellence” by the North Georgia UMC Conference.

“Mt. Zion UMC Preschool is known as ‘the loving school in the heart of East Cobb.'”

Mt. Zion UMC Preschool is known as ‘the loving school in the heart of East Cobb.’ The goal of this makeover was to create a calming sensory therapy space for students attending Mt. Zion. Through a prior partnership with the Adaptive Learning Center, Mt. Zion has become known for excellence in the sensory special needs education space and has recently partnered with an in-house licensed occupational therapist to provide adaptive services for their students. By providing dimmable lighting, a custom climbing/cool down tower, a custom climbing wall, and various therapy and sensory equipment features, we were able to provide this therapy space that will serve hundreds of kids today and in the future.

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Desmond

Written by Clareece Cunningham on June 27, 2024. Posted in Artisan Design Studio, Bin There Dump That Atlanta, Cambria, Construction Resources, Meet the Kids, Pulley and Associates, Randall Brothers, Real Floors Commercial.

7 Years Old
Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus, Club Foot, Bowel and Bladder Complications

Desmond has spina bifida, hydrocephalus and autism, but in no way do these diagnoses define him or limit his joy! His parents say is a social and caring person, always looking to greet anyone he meets in passing by shaking hands or giving a hug. Not only is he caring, but he is also fiercely independent and determined to do more things on his own; he knows what he wants! Because of this, he has always been structured in time scheduling and organization since birth. On any given day, you can find Desmond doing art, baking, cooking, out in nature, playing the piano or listening to music. He has such an imagination and loves being silly! Among his goals in life, he wants to be a veterinarian or as he calls it, a ‘pet doctor.’

“He has such an imagination and loves being silly!”

The makeover Desmond will be receiving will ensure that the space not only works for him now, but will continue to accommodate his needs for many years to come. Because of his diagnoses, he has no feeling below his knees. This requires him to use AFO braces. Getting into a bathtub or getting on hard flooring from his wheelchair is very careful work. Though he is independent and mobile with his wheelchair, they have to keep an eye on him as he can lose focus and be distracted in public settings due to his autism. Sunshine on a Ranney Day hopes to create a space for Desmond to feel safe and contained in his own bedroom, as well as a bathroom that gives space for increased independence and comfort.

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Photography by Carmen Mari

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Hudson

Written by Clareece Cunningham on April 9, 2024. Posted in Bin There Dump That Atlanta, Cambria, Construction Resources, Meet the Kids, Mohawk, Pulley and Associates, Randall Brothers, Real Floors Commercial, Reynard Custom Homes, ServiceWise Electric, TKO Plumbing Services.

6 Years Old
Gaucher Disease Type 2

Hudson is the youngest of 3 children, following his sister Olivia (8) and brother Gavin (10). He was born a happy healthy baby. Around 4 months of age, Hudson’s parents started noticing some differences in him, such as weight loss, difficulty nursing, and choking. After a few significant episodes Hudson was hospitalized around 6 months of age for further investigation. After a 16 day stay in the hospital and lots of testing Hudson was sent home with no answers and told to follow up with genetics. At the young age of 9 months old, on July 2nd, 2018, Hudson’s mom Nichole received the phone call that would forever alter the life their family had once dreamed of. Hudson was diagnosed with a rare, incurable, terminal, genetic disease, Gauchers Disease 2. They were told to put Hudson on hospice, that he would have no quality of life, never walk, talk, or live past the age of 2. Nichole’s response to them….. “but God”.

“You’ve never had a hug ‘till you’ve had a Huddy hug!”

Hudson is now an amazing 5 year old who is living his BEST life! His family has and will continue to go to the ends of the earth for Hudson and his siblings. For the past 4 years they have made the drive to D.C. every 3 to 6 months for Hudson’s geneticist who is the only one in the US willing to give him a chance at life! In fact, Hudson is now being followed by geneticists all over the world as he is re-writing the books and making a way for all the children to come.

Hudson is a very social kid, who thinks his siblings have hung the moon. He loves sports (football, basketball, and baseball), movies (Toy Story is his favorite), and has a smile that lights up his family’s world! He’s also known to give the BEST hugs. You’ve never had a hug ‘till you’ve had a Huddy hug!

Unfortunately, Hudson is very susceptible to viruses that have kept him in the hospital ICU for more than half of his life. Because of this, they have had to keep Hudson confined within the walls of their home, limiting his exposure to the outside world. Sunshine on a Ranney Day is honored to bring light and joy into the walls that surround Hudson to help him continue living his BEST life!

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Photography by Vicki Alsup Photography

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Nicolas & Maddox

Written by Clareece Cunningham on April 3, 2024. Posted in Bin There Dump That Atlanta, Meet the Kids, Seabrook Design Co.

8 Years Old
Metachromatic Leukodystrophy

Meet Nico and Maddox! In September of 2022, both boys were diagnosed with Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD), a genetic disease that affects the brain and nervous system. Those with the disease progressively lose function as the substance that protects the nerve cells (Myelin) becomes damaged. The result is a loss of motor and cognitive function over time. There is no cure, and no treatment options are available at this stage of their disease.

Nico (8) is a bundle of curiosity and creativity. From the moment he said his first words, dinosaurs became his world. His playroom is a prehistoric playground adorned with dinosaur toys, including his favorite T-Rex. It’s common to find him engrossed in dinosaur books or correcting his parents on the difference between a Brachiosaurus and a Brontosaurus. Beyond his fascination with dinosaurs, Nico possesses a remarkable intellect and vivid imagination that sets him apart. His inquisitive nature has led him to develop a keen interest in puzzles. He often thrived on the mental stimulation that solving puzzles provides.

“One of the family’s favorite pastimes is following the path through their garden to look at all the vegetables and flowers planted along the way.”

Maddox (6) is a bundle of joy who can turn any moment into a celebration with his infectious laughter. His zest for life is evident in everything he does, and his laughter fills the air with happiness. He possesses an innate ability to lighten up a room, bringing smiles to the faces of those around him. His playful spirit and genuine enthusiasm for life make him a magnetic presence, drawing people in with the promise of shared laughter and joy. Music holds a special place in Maddox’s heart, and he expresses his love for life through the power of song. His repertoire includes the timeless classics “Happy Birthday” and the festive “Jingle Bells.” His unwavering enthusiasm turns any sing-along into a heartwarming performance that leaves everyone smiling.

One of the family’s favorite pastimes is following the path through their garden to look at all of the vegetables and flowers planted along the way. This is a perfect reflection of the family’s love for life and being together! Sunshine on a Ranney Day’s goal is to make them as comfortable as possible as symptoms begin to limit the boys’ abilities. We hope to help the family make the most of their time with the boys by improving the accessible areas of the home to accommodate the boys’ needs.

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Photography by Kelly Larkin

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István

Written by Clareece Cunningham on December 12, 2023. Posted in Bin There Dump That Atlanta, Cambria, Construction Resources, Meet the Kids, Pulley and Associates, Randall Brothers, Real Floors Commercial, Seabrook Design Co, ServiceWise Electric, TKO Plumbing Services.

12 Years Old
Cerebral Palsy, Hearing Loss, Hip Dysplasia, Chronic Lung Disease & Global Developmental Delays

István had a traumatic beginning, being born a micro-preemie at 25 weeks gestation. Only weighing 1 lb, 6 oz, he fought hard to live. Being a micro-preemie comes with so many challenges – it seems like every decision a parent makes to ensure the baby’s survival comes with a set of lifelong effects. For instance, István contracted MRSA in the hospital (which required broad-spectrum antibiotics) and was on a ventilator for months. One or both of these life-saving measures is more than likely responsible for his unilateral hearing loss. István also has hip dysplasia and cerebral palsy, among other medical challenges.

“István’s blissful character proves that an extraordinary beginning does not determine your life’s path.”

Nonetheless, István does not allow any of his diagnoses to hinder who he is and who he wants to be. He is a very joyful and fun child, always finding a joke to make you laugh or spouting random history facts that remind you of your middle school history class that you probably loathed. In his free time, István dreams of being a history teacher with an RV, so he can enjoy random camping trips across the US. István is an avid reader – reading mostly history books about World War II, the American Revolution, and Ancient Rome. As a homeschooler, TV time is limited in their household. However, when István is offered time to watch television, he loves watching the History Channel, documentaries, and movies in black and white. István’s blissful character proves that an extraordinary beginning does not determine your life’s path.

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Photography by Nicole Bryant

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Marie & Alondra

Written by Clareece Cunningham on December 12, 2023. Posted in Bin There Dump That Atlanta, Cambria, Construction Resources, Crosby Design Group, Meet the Kids, Mohawk, Pulley and Associates, Randall Brothers, Real Floors Commercial.

17 Years Old
Diastrophic Dysplasia & Scoliosis

Marie is a determined, funny 17 yr old with a spinal cord injury. This self-proclaimed night owl loves to dance, cuddle with her orange eyed cat and plays on many wheelchair sports teams, including basketball for Blaze sports and wheelchair tennis. Marie has been active in the Atlanta disability community since the age of 2. Marie has served as a mentor to other disabled children at Georgia disability camps, volunteers at the local children’s hospital and works in a pediatrician’s office part-time. She is currently studying children’s healthcare in college. This rising high school senior excels in math, language arts and science. Marie is a fabulous athlete. She plays basketball for Blaze sports all girls/women team and wheelchair tennis.

When Marie graduates high school in late 2024, she hopes to move into a duplex her mother purchased nearby. Michele, Marie’s mom, will be renting out the other side of the duplex to Alondra and her family. This means that Marie can live independently, while also having the security of others closeby. The venture will tremendously help her gain the necessary independence that all young adults long for. Without the remodel, Marie cannot reach the next milestone in her life: learning how to live on her own with just a little help. The duplex needs improvements to make it accessible for both of the girls’ independent living, and that is where Sunshine on a Ranney Day comes in! Both sides of the duplex will receive renovations that will make it possible for both girls to grow towards independence in their daily activities.

“Marie & Alondra will be neighbors; living in the same duplex and equally working towards more independent living.”

In her current living situation, Alondra has to be carried through the home by her parents because the hallways aren’t wide enough for her wheelchair. This keeps her from being independent, but with an accessible space she can do most things on her own. For seven years, Alondra has lived in a home inaccessible to her needs. She has had many back surgeries and is in physical therapy to learn how to manage life in a power wheelchair. She plans on living with her parents for many years to come, so a home that is accessible to her will be life-changing. Alondra is applying to a technical school to be a medical assistant. Her favorite color is burgundy, and she loves lively Spanish music.

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Photography by Marcelino Aguilar

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Osayi

Written by Clareece Cunningham on December 12, 2023. Posted in Bin There Dump That Atlanta, Chattahoochee Tech Design Program, Meet the Kids.

4 Years Old
Autism Spectrum Level 3

Osayi is a vibrant ball of energy who greets each day with enthusiasm and curiosity! He’s up early in the morning and often takes his time winding down at night. With a passion for climbing, jumping, and cars, this spirited little boy is always on the go!

Navigating speech therapy, occupational therapy, and chiropractic visits, Osayi is in need of a special sensory room where he can safely release his energy and explore the world around him. His mom dreams of a contained space where he can play freely, without the worry of him running off.

“His mom lovingly calls him her “genius boy,” as he has a remarkable knack for numbers and letters that continues to amaze her.”

Incorporating light therapy and decompression seats will help Osayi find calm during his busy days. His mom lovingly calls him her “genius boy,” as he has a remarkable knack for numbers and letters that continues to amaze her. Through Sunshine on a Ranney Day, Osayi is on the path to having the perfect therapy room tailored just for him. Join us in celebrating his journey and helping him shine even brighter!

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Photography by Rosalind Williams

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Kendall

Written by Clareece Cunningham on December 12, 2023. Posted in Bin There Dump That Atlanta, Chattahoochee Tech Design Program, Meet the Kids, Mohawk, Randall Brothers, Real Floors Commercial, ServiceWise Electric.

16 Years Old
Traumatic Brain Injury

Kendall’s parents are high school sweethearts and had three daughters and one son. Camryn, Kendall, Chase and Kaiden all have such beautifully unique personalities and roles within the family. The matriarch of my family is Kendall’s grandmother. She is affectionately known as Grandma to all. Although she is a feisty and fiery golden ager, she is the peacemaker of the family. Together they are Team Thomas. They are a team not because of their quantity, but because their togetherness is their happy place. They are Team Thomas, party of seven, and nothing can break them.

Kendall has a giving spirit and is loveable. She’s a hard worker and very passionate about football. She has always danced to her own beat and always thought outside of the box. Hence, the only female on the North Paulding High School freshman football team. She also played football in fifth grade. Kendall was very active. She refereed soccer, briefly played Lacrosse, loved babysitting, walked dogs, danced at church, and loved volunteering. Her favorite color is pink. Her favorite artists are Beyonce followed by Fantasia, Alicia Keys, and Chris Brown.

“Kendall has always danced to her own beat and thought outside of the box.”

Their story and Kendall’s life suddenly changed on January 11, 2022, when the actions of one person had a piercing and life-altering effect on Team Thomas.. It was the unimaginable tragedy and near fatality of Kendall, who would later become the epitome of the power of prayer. It was that Tuesday, January 11, 2022, when Kendall was tragically struck by a vehicle at school landing on the left side of her head in front of her 11-year-old brother Chase and several others. Kendall was unconscious for almost three months. She sustained a traumatic brain injury and was fighting for her life. Due to the severity of her injuries, she has had to relearn how to do everything, from talking to walking. She has had four brain surgeries and three other procedures to accommodate her breathing and feeding. Although Kendall has made remarkable and miraculous improvements, she still has a long way to go. Nothing much has changed in regard to her infectious spirit, big personality, and love for Beyonce. Her favorite things to do now are singing and going to church.

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Photography by Catelyn Fraser

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Amanda, Caleb & Isaac

Written by Clareece Cunningham on July 3, 2023. Posted in Artisan Design Studio, Bin There Dump That Atlanta, Cambria, Construction Resources, Meet the Kids, Mohawk, Pulley and Associates, Randall Brothers, Real Floors Commercial, ServiceWise Electric, The Wall Nut, TKO Plumbing Services.

19, 10 & 10 Years Old
Amanda: Spina Bifida

Caleb: Autism, congenital CMV, hearing & vision loss, sensory issues

Isaac: Pallister Killian Syndrome

Amanda, Caleb & Isaac come from a family of eight! Sunshine on a Ranney Day’s plans to create an accessible bathroom and therapy room for them will impact all three in different and wonderful ways.

Amanda is 19 years old and was born in China. She was born with spina bifida which causes her to be paralyzed from the waist down. She has been with her family since she was 13 years old and is such a joy! She uses a wheelchair and other medical equipment and has had many major surgeries since she’s been home. Amanda loves reading, anime, art and is very talented with drawing. She is also very excited to start her first job soon. A handicap accessible bathroom will be such a blessing to her!

“Sunshine on a Ranney Day’s plans to create an accessible bathroom and therapy room for them will impact all three in different and wonderful ways.“

Caleb is 10 years old and was born with congenital CMV and calcifications on his brain. He was adopted at 4 weeks old and he is such a cutie pie. He has severe autism and loves to quote books, movies and especially nursery rhymes. Singing, swinging and swimming are his very favorite activities. Everyone who meets Caleb falls in love with him. He is funny, sweet and silly. He will enjoy a new playroom/therapy room so very much.

Isaac is 10 and was born with Pallister Killian Syndrome which is a rare genetic disorder that affects the 12th chromosome. He was adopted at 5 months old when he was discharged from the NICU. He is blind, deaf and intellectually he is still their baby. He is an absolute JOY to his family. Isaac’s smile can melt a heart of stone! His laughter echoes through their home reminding his family that there is joy all around us if we just open the eyes of our hearts to see it! He loves swinging, lights, vibrating toys, and being held and tickled. He also utilizes a wheelchair and because of his size, an accessible shower is going to be the most amazing gift to him and to his parents. He will also love and enjoy the new therapy room!

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Photography by Shana Darnell

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Damon (DJ)

Written by Clareece Cunningham on July 3, 2023. Posted in Bin There Dump That Atlanta, Cambria, Construction Resources, Meet the Kids, Mohawk, Pulley and Associates, Randall Brothers, Real Floors Commercial, ServiceWise Electric, TKO Plumbing Services, Vickers Design Group.

11 Years Old
Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus

“At 24 weeks gestation my life changed forever. I was told that my baby had spina bifida and that his life would be tumultuous at best. It was suggested that I terminate my pregnancy as it was predicted that his quality of life would be very low. I then sought the opinion of some amazing doctors at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta who told me that the information I was provided would not be DJ’s story.

DJ was born at 32 weeks and this amazing young man has not stopped making an impact in my life and the life of others. Not only did he have spina bifida, but he was also diagnosed with hydrocephalus. He struggled through some developmental delays as he did not start walking until 2 years old; BUT HE STARTED WALKING!!! A prior specialist stated he would never walk, but GOD had other plans.

“He may not run as fast or jump as high as other kids, but this kid has never stopped trying and would challenge you every chance he gets.”

He continues to be a scholar maintaining honor roll since pre-K. He may not run as fast or jump as high as other kids, but this kid has never stopped trying and would challenge you every chance he gets. Like most kids his age he is an avid gamer with his favorite video game being Super Smash Brothers. He is a sports fanatic who supports all of his home teams: The Falcons, The Hawks, The Braves, and Atlanta United. He is currently a member of an awesome team, The Gwinnett Heat where he plays wheelchair handball, basketball, and football. Besides collecting all of the Nintendo Amiibo ever made, his life goals are ever evolving. I am so proud of the young man that he has become and I’m excited to see what more GOD has planned for him in the future.” – Rashida, Damon’s mom