Angela

Today, on a holiday rooted in gratitude and belonging, we’re honored to introduce someone incredibly special: Angela, the newest member of the JJP Crew and our very first adult Crew member. Her story is one that reminds us why inclusion is not just important… it’s necessary.

Angela’s life began with uncertainty. Born prematurely with a prolapsed umbilical cord, the first words spoken in the delivery room were, “No heroics.” But from her first breath, Angela became everything heroic could mean. She was diagnosed with cerebral palsy (quadriplegic) and later epilepsy and developmental delays. Her earliest years were filled with medical interventions, therapies, and endless appointments, the kind of journey that requires strength from an entire family.

For years, Angela’s family searched for any opportunity to help her sit, stand, walk, speak, and thrive. They traveled wherever hope existed, including relocating from Georgia to California for specialized therapy. But it wasn’t a medical milestone that changed everything; it was a shift in perspective. At a parent conference, her family realized that even if Angela someday walked or talked, those milestones would mean little without community. Without friendship. Without belonging. That realization changed their path. Inclusion became the priority. They advocated fiercely, educated their school, partnered with teachers, and ensured Angela was not on the outside looking in but fully part of life. She was included in classrooms, surrounded by friends, and supported by peers and educators who believed belonging was not conditional.

After high school and returning to Georgia, Angela continued learning through culinary education at Clayton College and even opened her own small business: Hold Your Horses, a name full of humor and personality, just like her. Today, Angela fills her life with music, art, adaptive 5K racing, workouts, communication classes, social outings, and, if given the chance, ordering takeout. She also knows every Disney movie by heart and proudly claims Tigger as her favorite companion.

But while Angela thrives socially and emotionally, there are still real needs. Her parents, now aging, are still physically tying her wheelchair into their vehicle because they do not have a locking system to secure it. It’s physically demanding, unsafe, and something no caregiver should have to do, especially after a lifetime of advocacy, love, and sacrifice. A proper wheelchair locking device would bring safety, dignity, and relief to their daily routine.

So today, as we celebrate Thanksgiving and welcome Angela with open arms, we also open a door of generosity. If you feel moved during this season of giving and would like to join us in bringing comfort, dignity, and Christmas joy to Angela and her family, please reach out. No support is too small, and every act of kindness creates impact.

Angela, thank you for being here. Thank you for being a leader. Thank you for showing us that belonging has no age limit. Your story reminds us that community isn’t something we talk about; it’s something we build.

Happy Thanksgiving, Angela. Welcome to the Crew.
We are so grateful you’re here.