The Story
Dewone was born healthy, joyful, and full of life. As a toddler, his story took a devastating turn. He suffered a severe burn injury and developed bacterial meningitis. One day, he was found unresponsive and went without oxygen for over an hour. The stroke that followed changed everything. Dewone lost his ability to speak. He was later diagnosed with epilepsy and cerebral palsy. Today, he requires full-time care.
Despite these immense challenges, Dewone’s spirit remains untouched. His joy is undeniable, found in the way he lights up while tossing a ball, playing with glowing toys, or simply engaging with the world around him. His smile is infectious, his affection genuine, and his happiness a powerful reminder of what truly matters. By his side through it all is his mother, Jade, whose unwavering love and strength have carried them through every challenge. She lives by a simple but profound belief: “Take care of what you pray for.”
Yet, even unwavering love faces significant obstacles. Bathing Dewone required Jade to lift him every single day, an exhausting and increasingly dangerous task. Without proper support or safety features, their bathroom simply wasn’t equipped for his needs. Something had to change.
Recognizing this urgent need, and thanks to the generous support of Jackson Healthcare, a dedicated partner in our mission, Sunshine on a Ranney Day was able to transform Dewone’s bathroom and bedroom into supportive, accessible spaces. The new walk-in shower enables Jade to safely care for Dewone, reducing the risk of injury and physical strain. With padded walls, Dewone is protected as he works to build strength and mobility. These modifications offer daily comfort, greater safety, and enhanced independence for both Dewone and his mother. In a deeply meaningful touch, Therapy Gyms placed handwritten words of encouragement beneath each mat, serving as hidden reminders that this family is surrounded by love, even in unseen moments.
"Take care of what you pray for" - Jade, Dewone's mother
This transformation was made possible by an incredible community of partners who generously gave their time, talent, and resources. We are so grateful to Ranney Blair Weidmann for her stunning design expertise; Real Floors Commercial for donating labor and installation of tile and flooring; Construction Resources for the beautiful vanity; Cambria for elegant countertops; Champions Place at Home for ongoing support with accessible, voice-activated technology; Comfort Research for soft, safe furniture; MSI Surfaces for high-quality tile; Echols for a stylish, functional mirror; Sherwin Williams for vibrant, durable paint; Top Knobs for premium hardware; ServiceWise Electrical for excellent electrical work; TKO Plumbing for expert craftsmanship; Builders Cabinet Company for custom cabinetry; Traditions in Tile & Stone for the Schluter waterproofing system; E Pulley & Associates for essential plumbing materials; Alpha Omega Concrete Cutting for precise foundation work; Lackey Drywall for drywall and materials; PLS Carpentry and Randall Brothers for framing; Georgia Interior Painting for professional painting; and Bin There Dump That for disposal services. A special thank you to Nothing Bundt Cakes for the sweet treats that made our celebration even more meaningful, as well as to Niki Murphy for capturing the beautiful photos and iFrame Media for producing the reveal video.
Ultimately, Dewone’s story is one of resilience, joy, and love. We are honored to help make his world safer, more accessible, and brighter.
