Many of you know that I have taken a temporary leave from the classroom. However, I continue to spend my free time advocating for children with special needs.
I’m currently volunteering as a consultant for several former parents I worked with. I am constantly keeping up with special education news. And I’m trying to read up on special education law in my free time.
Additionally, I’m actively seeking opportunities to give back to organizations that support children with physical or neurological conditions.
Photo credit: Ali Harper
One such organization is The Possible Dream Foundation. The mission of The Possible Dream Foundation is “to improve the quality of life of children and adults with special needs by providing a loving home, a caring family and an understanding environment where individuals can reach their full potential.”
History of The Possible Dream Foundation:
In 1972, Michael and Camille Geraldi met in Room 238 at The Miami Children’s Hospital in the gastroenterology ward. Michael was a pediatrician and Camille was a nurse.
“We both had such a tremendous fondness with the children. Being able to help them, that’s what drew us together.” — Michael Geraldi
Photo credit: Ali Harper
On March 8, 2016, Michael passed away at the age of 73 from mesothelioma. (You can learn more about mesothelioma here).
Camille continues the work that her and Michael started decades ago as a nurse and doctor duo. She is continuing to raise funds, raise awareness, and educate others on how to support individuals with special needs.
If you’re interested in finding out more information, you can follow the family on Facebook or learn more here (video), here, and here. And you can also donate to their efforts here. Any contribution – whether it be monetary or simply spreading the word about this great organization – is greatly appreciated!
Wow
I think this is a beautiful cause worth pursuing and I thought the story was beautiful too. I’d definitely be spreading the word about this!
This is such a touching story this morning. Michael and Camille – just wow. I am so saddened to hear that Michael has passed but that their foundation carries on. These children and their families too, need a lot of support. Thank you for writing about this.
Kimberly recently posted…The Bathroom Door Is Always Open
I just love this foundation. I’ll have to look more into it.
That couple sounds so amazing. I’m sorry Michael passed, but I’m so glad his wife is continuing with the foundation.
Amber Myers recently posted…Hey, It’s Okay
What a great foundation!!
Im so glad i read this inspirational story. We are a house full of special needs kids too. Thank you for sharing this great cause
They sound like an amazing couple. What a great cause – thanks for sharing. I try and help various charities I believe in when I can too.
-Lauren
ShootingStarsMag recently posted…Author Interview: The Unprotected’s Kelly Sokol
Nothing happens unless first a dream. This Foundation should be a Dream come True Michael. His name remains forever with the foundation..Good to know. Thanks for sharing.
Very cool! In the past, I have volunteered in many ways from special education consutant to lobbying to create and pass laws for SPED. Thanks for all that you do. Xoxo
Wow amazing story! The foundation is also really amazing. Keep up the good work x
What a touching story and thank you for sharing. I hadn’t heard of this foundation, but it sounds like amazing work is coming out of it and one I will remember to help support.
What a wonderful cause and it is so nice to see people supporting all the amazing work. What great work Michael and Camille have done.
Felicita Moncada recently posted…6 Life Changes for a Healthier You
Wow thank you so much for sharing this story. What an amazing foundation. Thanks for your fanatic work!!!
This sounds like an absolutely wonderful foundation. So sad about Michael’s passing, but so wonderful that the good work he did will carry on. Thank you for sharing their story!
Beth recently posted…Thrifty Tuesday – Save or Splurge
What a beautiful cause. Their foundation is a blessing. Sad to hear that Michael’s passed but happy that their work and passion lives on.
So sorry to hear of his passing, but a wonderful cause. Thanks for sharing about it. <3
What a great cause to support! Thanks for sharing about this foundation!
San recently posted…Currently | April
I have never heard of this foundation and i’m a teacher too!! i love that you’re advocating for those that don’t have a voice. i’ll be sharing this foundation with my colleagues
justine recently posted…Full Print Tee
What a great cause, there are so many out there, and each one seems so special in its own way!
Shopgirl Anonymous recently posted…Urban Outfitters: What Is The Shopping Experience?
Omg what an incredible foundation!!! Loving all the hard work and dedication they out in. So sad to hear of Michaels passing :-/
Thanks for introducing me to this foundation. It sounds like they do incredible work.
Nellwyn recently posted…Where To Find Freelance Writing Jobs
OMG – what a wonderful organization. I had not heard of them before. Thanks for bringing the awareness.
Divya, I love the posts you share. This is no exception. Thank you for sharing this special families foundation. This is the kind of stuff that needs to be trending on social media daily. What an amazing husband and wife team. And thanks for pointing me to the you tube video!
Jennifer Enoch recently posted…My Best is Not Good Enough
What a fantastic foundation, created by two amazing people!
Dominique recently posted…Why We Decided to Boycott The 12 Week Rule
I’m glad to read about this foundation. Thanks for sharing this inspiring story.
omg this story is really touching. am so sorry for the loss . This made me cry
Wow they have done such amazing work and may Micheal RIP and may Camille find the strength to go on.
Moipone Islam recently posted…First Aid 101: How to Treat Bites and Stings
My step grandfather died from Mesotheleoma. It’s such a sad and tragic thing to happen to a family. Everything seems to be fine and then things just go down hill so fast. And you barely feel like you have the time to say goodbye. I miss Cliff.
David Elliott recently posted…Co-Parenting: Eight Lessons Learned
What a tremendously beautiful story! The world needs more people like Michael and Camille. I’ve never heard of this foundation and I’m so glad you posted this. Myself and several of my family members are very involved with special needs organizations. Truly love this , blessings to all.
OvenStruck recently posted…Sweet Potato Black Bean Vegetarian Enchiladas
How beautiful, love that there are foundations and people that is interested in helping others and enhancing their lives. Awesome work!
This is such a beautiful cause to stand for. I’m glad someone took initiative to start something this amazing. May God bless their cause.
Such a heartwarming story. This couple should be emulated. They gave their lives and love these children like their own. I should find out how to help their foundation. I’d put in a good word too so friends and family will also reach out and help in whatever way.
Our children truly are our most precious asset. Volunteering, mentoring, and teaching are all amazing ways to make a difference in the world and really have a positive influence on younger generations. I totally applaud you for your awareness of giving back.
Jessica Harlow recently posted…Save some Green this Earth Day!
What a great initiative! I’m glad to know that you’re also volunteering for them! I’m sure it would be a great satisfaction to make a difference in any kid’s life!
Ana Ojha recently posted…8 Must Cities To Visit On The East Coast of The USA | For Beginners
What a wonderful family and foundation! And you are amazing to work with past students and their families. They’re lucky to have you!
Tiffany VanSickle recently posted…KCFW F/W 17 Bubbly & Bowties Recap + My Outfits!
It such a beautiful thing that even though he passed, he left a legacy that carries on. so happy I learned about this!
Deimarys recently posted…Michale Todd sonicBLEND | Mini Tutorial & Review