Testimonials
​I joined when it was Counties Manukau Special Needs Support Group a few years ago now with my daughter who has coeliacs disease, apraxia of speech and hip dysplasia. With the support of this group it kept me going and fighting for my daughter. The xmas events my kids and myself love kids can be themselves and no one looks at them with disapproving eyes and at me like I'm a bad parent. At age 8 my daughter has now been diagnosed with autism and this group has helped me so much. I'm so thankful for this group otherwise with my own health problems in would of given up years ago. I have also made some lovely friends along the way through this group.
Sharlene
Auckland
Kia Ora. We live rural and it has been great to have such a wonderful network of people to support us. The hurdles can be great but with the support of this group they can be overcome. We have also as a whanau been able to experience some great experiences by being part of this group. We have been able to take our child to special needs events where we have just fitted right in. It has honestly been refreshing and inspirational. To the organisers, Thanks for the wonderful support and also to the people that make this group so wonderful, Nga mihi nunui.
Te Puawai Connelly-Richards
Auckland
I have a son who is ADHD as a single mother I felt alone with no help or support . Professionals kept say it's my parenting . I had an older son who I had none of the problems I was facing . . One day I saw this support group on Facebook .. I joined . Thank God for this group I finally found a safe non judgmental place to not only ask questions to help us but finally I realised I wasn't alone and it wasn't my parenting I wasn't all by myself and have been blessed with wonderfull caring amazing woman who struggle just like me . With the help and support has enriched both my son and I . We share dinners catch ups and many others . Marlene is amazing woman and friend always willing to lend a listening ear as so many other woman are . I have met some incredible woman and lovely children .
Michelle
Auckland
I feel very spoilt. Thank you Marlene and Joy for organising a wonderful brunch for us. I only knew of 2 people at my table but I took a risk and spoke to everyone This was a beautiful reminder for us today to feel acknowledged and have that freedom away from our SN life -the struggle is real and we aren't alone!
Amelia
Auckland
Thank you so much Marlene Green for everything you do for this group. Was really nice to have some time out and meet some amazing mums. Also thanks to your amazing people who help to make this all possible for us. It is very much appreciated
Cheryl
Auckland
A fantastic group to be part of to promote sport and recreation opportunities for physically and vision impaired people across Auckland. Many families have been and still are being connected with regular and/or one off opportunities through the networks created within this group. Big ups to those whose are doing the hard yards behind the scenes.
Maia Lewis - Halberg Disability Sport Foundation
Auckland
Being a member of this group has given my daughter some amazing opportunities. Her most memorable experience being the dinosaur encounter which would never have been possible at the normal public sessions as they would have overwhelmed her completely. She is currently attending the adapted gymnastics lessons and not only has she improved physically but her confidence and social skills have increased. For me, I have recieved support and advice from the group which has been invaluable. To know that there are other people who can relate to what you are going through or feeling is a great comfort.
Jo
Auckland
Saw your FB post, what I think: what I love about being part of the group is the diverse postings of different informative topics. I love the understanding, compassion, support and acceptance that comes along with having a child who is extraordinary with the other members you meet on their journey. Marlene, Joy and other members are very thoughtful and passionate about caring for the whole family and their precious ones to access activities out in the community. Thank you, m x
M
Auckland