Impact Story: The Camacho Family

We would like to introduce you to the Camacho family! This family has become very special to Rising Above Ministries over the last year, and we know you will love hearing their story.

I was desperately searching for guidance as a special needs mom. I now see how the Lord was answering my prayers.

-Mara Camacho  

Tell us a little about your family.

My family consists of me and my two boys. Manny (8) and Cris (3). We love to  spend time together looking at trains and going to the park. 

Which member of your family has special needs?

Manny (8) has level 3 autism. Manny is mostly non-verbal but has started using a talking device that has made a big difference in our communication.

What was your response to your child’s diagnosis? How did it affect your other children?

At first, I had no idea what autism was and knew nothing. So I started to google. I searched and searched for ways that I could help him. I didn’t think it would impact our lives that much.

I researched and read as much as I could. I read blog after blog about how to help my sweet little boy. When I finally realized this was something that we would be living with for the rest of our lives, my research turned into fear. The things that started small right after his diagnosis with time began turning into huge giants that I did not know how I would face them.

How did you first learn about Rising Above?

I first learned about Rising Above through researching blogs about children with autism. Jeff Davidson’s blog (Goodnight Superman) was the first and only blog where I read about real HOPE. His words were such a comfort to me in a time when all I could see were the problems.

I began reading the Word. God began to show me that my Manny was fearfully and wonderfully made. God had formed him in from the womb and he was created for a plan and a purpose.

After reading all I could, I contacted the Rising Above office. Since then, they have brought me in like family. They have continued to check up on me during this crazy and unique time. I’m just amazed and grateful for Rising Above and everything they are doing for me.

Are there specific things that Rising Above offers that your family is able to use or participate in?

I’m a single mom and there is nothing in my area (Boston) that is supporting and encouraging special needs families. With Rising Above, I’ve been a part of the single moms Zoom group and the online small group.

I don’t have a church home or a large support group so this virtual family has been my source of hope and encouragement over the last year.

This has been my way of self care over the last few months. After the kids go to bed, I have time to read and connect with my Rising Above family. They are continuing to bring me hope and community through their online small groups and the Zoom group of ladies I get to connect with.

How has Rising Above impacted your life?

Becky has treated me and my family as one of her own. During this difficult time, RAM is continuously following up with me to make sure I’m okay and if in need of anything. My main support system is made up by members of this ministry. I now fully comprehend that it was not a coincidence that Jeff’s Superman blog popped up during one of those dark moments. I was desperately searching for guidance as a special needs mom- I now see how the Lord was answering my prayers. 

We are grateful for so many donors and volunteers who make stories like this a reality every day. Your partnership makes it possible for us to continue to pursue our mission of bringing the love of God and hope in Christ to special-needs families in the Upper Cumberland, across the nation, and around the world.