Providing relief and support to help children with devastating medically complex, neurological conditions and their families in the St. Louis area and beyond.

Here’s what we’ve been up to…

Impact
Sarah Lopez Waiver: What You Need to Know video

Exciting News!
The JJMF recently teamed up with Matt Waggoner, Information Specialist Statewide Director, Missouri Department of Mental Health/Division of Developmental Disabilities, to create an online resource for JJMF families about obtaining the Sarah Lopez Waiver. Our families have shared countless stories of frustration and overwhelm when it comes to trying to understand this waiver and the process of applying for it. We understand these challenges and wanted to provide a helpful resource. Alongside Matt, we developed a helpful presentation and follow-up Q&A during which Matt first explains what the waiver is and how it can be used, who is eligible, and how to go about securing it for your child. Following that, members of the JJMF team ask crowdsourced questions from our community in an effort to better understand the questions families often find themselves asking.

To further support JJMF families as they navigate the process, Matt Waggoner has graciously offered to answer individual family questions.

View the Presentation

On the Blog
Spotlight: Kids’ Adaptive Triathlon showcases strength and determination
Many people know someone in their circle who have taken on the extraordinary feat of training in swimming, biking and running to compete in a triathlon. Willingly committing yourself to such a challenge is impressive—but even more impressive—is the strength and determination of medically complex children who participate in a kids’ adaptive triathlon! Our community is incredibly lucky because St. Louis Children’s Hospital hosts Tri My Best Adaptive Triathlon—a fittingly named annual event—in which young athletes complete versions of the swim, bike and run tailored to their individual mobility level. The JJMF team once again hosted a tent in the Family Fun Area where we had the chance to meet and connect with families and cheer on the athletes as they crossed the finish line. Read this month’s blog post in which each JJMF team member reflects on this tremendously inspiring event.

Community Support
Virtual Support Group for JJMF Parents and Caregivers
Tuesday, October 22nd from 7:30pm – 8:30pm CT on Zoom

The JJMF is honored to continue offering our parent & caregiver Virtual Support Group led by our Community Engagement Manager, Karlita Blackwell, who holds a masters degree in counseling. In September, attendees gathered via Zoom to talk about feeling isolated as a medical parent or caregiver. This month, on October 22nd—again via Zoom, at 7:30pm—JJMF families are invited to participate in this supportive gathering where we’ll be talking about “Overwhelm & the Mental Load.” We would love to have you join us for the opportunity to share in a safe space with other parents who get it. If you have any questions, please reach out to Karlita at karlita@junejessee.org.

REGISTER HERE