Our Story
About Gabby's Journey
Our story of hope, love, and resilience began the day Gabriella Okelani De La Vega, fondly called Gabby, entered our lives. Born on a peaceful night in August 2014, Gabby's laughter filled our home with warmth and joy as she blossomed into a bright and spirited child. As Gabby grew, we reveled in her every milestone, her infectious giggles lighting up even the darkest of nights. However, at the age of 2 and a half, a subtle shift in her behavior caught our attention, leading us on a path filled with uncertainty and challenges. At three and a half, Gabby was diagnosed with encephalopathy, expressive language disorder, and ASD associated with a mental or behavioral disorder, requiring substantial support at level 2, mild to moderate. Despite the daunting journey ahead, we were determined to wrap Gabby in a blanket of unwavering love and support, guiding her toward a future filled with hope and possibilities.
Our quest for healing and growth led us to seek innovative treatments, including stem cell therapy, which took us beyond borders in search of a brighter tomorrow for Gabby. During these moments of vulnerability and strength, we witnessed the true essence of resilience as Gabby's spirit shone brightly through the challenges she faced.
One magical night when Gabby was 5, I stumbled upon her softly reciting her ABCs, a heartfelt melody that echoed the promise of progress and potential. It was a moment that reignited our hope and fueled our determination to help Gabby find her voice in a world that often seemed overwhelming. As Gabby turned 6, a simple package from Amazon brought an unexpected breakthrough – her first spoken word, "open." In that fleeting moment, the power of perseverance and the beauty of progress unfolded before our eyes, reminding us of the profound impact of every small victory along Gabby's remarkable journey.
Our days were filled with homeschooling, therapies, and a shared commitment to give Gabby every opportunity to thrive. Through travel and exposure to the world's wonders and challenges, we nurtured Gabby's spirit and embraced the complexities of her unique path with unwavering love and dedication.
Now, at 9, Gabby stands as a beacon of strength and resilience, transitioning from nonverbal to uttering words, singing songs, and showcasing her remarkable cognitive abilities. While her journey may be unconventional, Gabby's understanding and empathy shine brightly, bridging the gap between hearts and minds in ways that words cannot express.
Our story is one of hope, love, and resilience, a testament to the transformative power of unwavering belief and the endless possibilities that emerge from the depths of darkness. Through Gabby's journey, we have learned that love knows no bounds, hope springs eternal, and the light of resilience shines brightest in the face of adversity, guiding us toward a future filled with promise, connection, and boundless love.