Meet Preston

Images Captured by Anelle Richarson Photography

Meet 4 year old Preston.  Preston loves cooking, movies, and teasing his little brother.  In 2010, Preston was diagnosed with Kleefstra Syndrome.  His mom, Bretny, felt like someone had run over her chest with a truck when she finally received the diagnosis.  Although she was happy to finally have a diagnosis, it was very hard to hear about the challenges Preston would have to face.

 

Kleefstra syndrome affects each patient differently.  Main characteristics include developmental delay, intellectual disability, severely limited or absent speech, and weak muscle tone.  This syndrome has not been acknowledged for long, so what the future holds for Preston is a mystery.

Preston’s Mom is always extremely proud when Preston hits a milestone.  After four years of waiting, she was finally able to hear the words, “I love you, Mommy.”

 

Preston takes great pleasure in the simple things in life.  He is able to pick up any instrument and make it sound like he knows exactly what he is doing.  He has an extraordinary photographic memory, and charms the ladies by always noticing if they are wearing a new shirt, have dyed their hair, or have gotten their nails done.

 

Although you face many challenges when you have a child with special needs, Preston’s mom would not trade him for the world.  He brings great joy to her life, and although Preston’s future remains a mystery, they have learned to live life one day at a time, cross their fingers, and have fun.

Story by Erin Lylyk