A story on the online news site, InkFreeNews, shares the story of Marna Pacheo and Susan Hickok in their quest to help people with disabilities. Marna is a member of the Winona Lake, Ind. Grace Brethren Church (Bruce Barlow, lead pastor). A portion of the story appears below. Click here to read the complete article.
Local Woman’s Daughter Inspired Business In Fort Wayne
WINONA LAKE — A local woman’s new business has truly been a labor of love.
The story of CapeAble began with a mom’s dream to give dignity and comfort to her daughter who suffers from complex developmental trauma disorder and severe post-traumatic stress disorder.
Marna Pacheco, who lives in Winona Lake, is the co-owner of the CapeAble Sensory Products in Fort Wayne. Pacheco adopted her daughter Millie from China. Pacheco explains while her husband, Dan, and she knew going into the adoption that Millie would have cleft lip palate and potentially some other issues. However, they did not know exactly how much this adoption would change their lives.
Since their adoption of Millie, Pacheco has been on a journey of learning how to care for and love a daughter who is non-verbal and autistic.
An occupational therapist Pacheco took Millie to suggested Pacheco purchase weighted items for Millie to wear.
Weighted items are worn to help propel the neurotransmitters to release serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins in the brain. Weighted clothing is used as a comforting mechanism.
As Pacheco looked for weighted items for Millie to wear, she was appalled with the choices.
Pacheco said the only wearable weighted item available was a blue vest that looked like a straight jacket.
Pacheco put her sewing experience to use and designed a “sweet pink cape.” The cape was made so that it was attractive and comfortable to wear.
Pacheco explained, “I have this adorable child … Her behaviors don’t look adorable.”
Click here to read the complete article.