Rene Steelman never anticipated being the mother of a disabled child. She was already a parent to five other children when their son, TJ was born. Only one lung was developed and he had other physical challenges, but even this did not phase the family until they noticed that he was not developing the way their other children had. It took several visits to as many doctors until one diagnosed TJ with cerebral palsy. He was eight months old.
Cerebral Palsy is a brain injury caused by oxygen deprivation. It affects body movement, muscle control, muscle coordination, muscle tone, reflex, posture, and balance. People with CP tend to be quite thin because of their inability to swallow food and the large amount of calories they burn. The injury is not repairable, but it is not considered life-threatening and most children with CP live well into adulthood. The Steelman’s son, TJ is now 30 years old.
When TJ became too big and heavy to be safely lifted from his wheelchair and transferred in and out of the car, the Steelmans began searching for a van. They first looked into retrofitting the van they already owned, but the cost was more that they could afford and would be as much as buying an existing, accessible van. He was 13 years old when they purchased their first wheelchair accessible van with a lift. When Mr. Steelman retired, Rene began looking for ways to help other families care for their disabled children. This year the Steelman Family will donate the first wheelchair accessible van with funds raised through their foundation.
The Steelman Foundation hosts events throughout the year to raise money for disabled children and their families, and for research into a cure for CP. In October they will host the annual, “Witches Night Out” event. Rene Steelman is the author of the new book, “Heaven Sent and Bent.” She is also a professional speaker, radio show host, and a veteran of the U.S. Navy.