MEET THE DONAHUE FAMILY

Navigating Life’s Challenges with Resilience and Joy: A Family’s Journey

Meet the Donahue family, a resilient and joyful trio residing in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The story of Jennifer (Jenn) and Joshua (Josh) Donahue, along with their 12-yearold son, Owen, is one of triumph over challenges, filled with love, support, and a determination to find joy in every day.

**FAMILY ROOTS AND CHALLENGES:**

Originally from Fort Wayne, the Donahue family spent some time in Indianapolis before seizing the opportunity to move back to their hometown when Owen was three. Owen’s early life was marked by a traumatic birthing experience, leading to a 24-day stay in the NICU and cerebral palsy. Despite the initial uncertainties surrounding Owen’s health, Jenn and Josh faced these challenges head-on, demonstrating remarkable strength.

*OWEN’S JOURNEY:*

Owen, now a seventh-grader at Summit Middle School, has not let his cerebral palsy deter him from fully participating in life. Beyond academics, Owen engages in adaptive sports and therapy at Turnstone, showcasing his determination to conquer any obstacle in his path.

**ADVICE FOR OTHERS FACING SIMILAR CHALLENGES:**

Reflecting on their experiences, Jenn shares advice for families going through similar situations.

She emphasizes the importance of connecting with others who have walked a similar path, underlining the strength that can be drawn from shared experiences.

**CELEBRATING MILESTONES AND OVERCOMING OBSTACLES:**

One of the memorable milestones in Owen’s journey is his use of the Tobii Dynavox eye recognition device for communication. Initially challenging, with tears and frustrations, Owen and his parents persevered. Today, the device is an integral part of Owen’s life, aiding him in various activities, from schoolwork to creating artwork.

**LIFE BEYOND CHALLENGES:**

The Donahue family thrives on creating lasting memories together. From annual traditions like attending the downtown Christmas Lighting event to their love for accessible outdoor activities, the family explores Fort Wayne with a sense of adventure. They hold season tickets to the Fort Wayne Football Club, frequent TinCaps baseball games, and revel in the beauty of the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

**TRAVELING WITH PURPOSE:**

The family’s love for travel is evident, with Josh taking the lead in researching wheelchair-accessible destinations. Tent camping in over a dozen states and exploring diverse landscapes, the Donahues prioritize experiences that accommodate Owen’s needs. They fly when necessary, navigating challenges with smaller travel wheelchairs and utilizing the TSA Cares program for a smoother airport experience.

**COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:**

The Donahue family actively supports their community by patronizing local businesses, attending sporting events, and embracing the welcoming atmosphere of Fort Wayne. Their involvement extends to Turnstone, a significant resource for adaptive sports, therapy, and equipment, fostering connections with others who share similar experiences.

**NEVER GIVE UP - A MOTTO FOR LIFE:**

In the words of Owen, “Never give up.” The Donahue family embodies this motto, facing challenges with creativity and perseverance. Though the journey can be arduous, they encourage others to find joy in each day and to keep fighting for the opportunities that many take for granted.

**WELCOMING NEW NEIGHBORS:**

To those new to Fort Wayne, the Donahue family extends a warm welcome.

They highlight the family-friendly and inclusive nature of the community and recommend getting involved with Turnstone, an exceptional facility supporting people with disabilities.

They highlight the family-friendly and inclusive nature of the community and recommend getting involved with Turnstone, an exceptional facility supporting people with disabilities.

The Donahue family’s story is one of strength, resilience, and unwavering support. In the face of challenges, they have not only found joy in their everyday lives but have also become advocates for others facing similar journeys. Their message is clear: embrace each day, overcome obstacles with creativity, and never give up.