Dylan

Sometimes you need help, and if you're lucky enough to be from Winfield, Alabama, you can be assured that you'll get it. Everyone there knows my cousin, Sherry Cunningham. Maybe she baked a birthday cake for you, or perhaps a wedding cake. Actually, everyone also knows her mama and daddy, Olan and Flo Cunningham, and the rest of their family, too...one of the perks of living in a small town.

Five years ago, Sherry's daughter, Kris, gave birth to Dylan and Conner. Unfortunately, the twins were born prematurely, and they spent over two months in the NICU. At eight months, Dylan was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Kris and her husband, Joe, were determined from the beginning to give Dylan the highest quality of life possible. Therapy started early, and continues to this day with physical and speech therapy twice a week and occupational therapy once a week. Dylan also participates in Hippotherapy (horse therapy). As for schooling, he has a program specifically designed for him, and he even has his own teacher. Dylan is one smart, happy boy. Joe's medical insurance, though, covers only so much...for example, by the end of May each year, all of their therapy coverage will be used up. The family also covers most of Dylan's equipment out-of-pocket because it's not deemed a "medical necessity."

Three years ago, the town of Winfield came together to have a fundraiser to help Dylan and his family. Since then, it's become an annual affair.There's a 5K run, a pancake breakfast, and a barbecue dinner. The Winfield cheerleaders sell tickets, and all proceeds go to Dylan. This year, Dylan's weekend is April 12th and 13th. If you'd like to buy tickets or help in any way, give Sherry a call at 205-412-4522. I'm so proud to call these people my family, and to call Winfield my hometown. Thanks from the bottom of my heart for your support.