Shanailee’s Journey Through PLAY

Shanailee was born prematurely, and her life expectancy was only two years. If she survived, doctors said she would likely never walk or talk. In 2023, she was diagnosed with Level 3 nonverbal autism and global developmental delay. She began walking at 18 months but showed no emotions or social responses.

In search of better services and support, I moved to Florida. We waited many months for help—until we discovered Easterseals. Within two months, everything changed. Shanailee received all the necessary evaluations and started the PLAY Project®.

At that time, Shanailee was nonverbal, aggressive, and disconnected from me as her mother. We lived in isolation because she couldn’t tolerate environments with a lot of stimulation.

The PLAY Project® has been one of the best things to happen to us. It has helped me see the world through her eyes. This program, along with our incredible Coordinator Mariely Rivera-Rohena, has given us the tools to understand my daughter’s needs. Since starting PLAY, we’ve formed a real connection. She is now using verbal communication, making eye contact, and even sharing hugs and kisses. She enjoys tickles and plays with me, allowing me into her world.

The best moment of all? When she says, “I love you, Mama.”

I am so grateful and full of joy.