Meet Annie

Benefiting from respite care at George Mark Children’s House 

I adopted my daughter, Annie, when she was seven years old and living in an orphanage in China. She was generally well-cared for, but undernourished because she lacked a feeding tube and other needed medical treatment for her cerebral palsy. I felt that Annie could thrive with good medical care and all of my love and support. Fortunately, now age thirteen, Annie has flourished, and respite care at George Mark Children’s House is an important ongoing source of support for us both.  While I have wonderful family and friends, they don’t feel capable of caring for my medically-fragile teen who needs everything done for her, including toileting, bathing, and eating. As a single mom, I rarely have a break from my demanding schedule.

When Annie stays at George Mark for respite care, she cuddles with pet therapy dogs, floats in the aquatic therapy pool, and is serenaded with her favorite songs by GMCH’s music therapist. Annie happily anticipates her visits to George Mark with giant smiles when she sees me packing her suitcase. I am so appreciative of George Mark Children’s House, the staff and all of GMCH’s supporters, for providing respite care so I can be the mother I want to be. 

“George Mark is one place where I don’t need to worry. Everyone there puts Annie’s needs first.” – Nicole, Annie’s Mother