HeartShare preschooler Jamal was presented with Celebrating Success Award from the Queens Council on Developmental Disabilities on Tuesday, April 25.

Jamal, who currently attends a HeartShare First Step Pre-School, came into the world and immediately began facing significant difficulties. He was born premature and as a toddler, was diagnosed with autism, epilepsy and extreme acid reflux. When Jamal’s family first brought him to HeartShare, he was nonverbal. But, with the help of his teachers, the constant support of his family and his own perseverance and hard work, Jamal is now able to successfully communicate with his family and friends! He is also now able to walk and eat with significantly less difficulty. Even at his young age, Jamal has faced his challenges with tremendous grace and shines as an inspiration at his school. Every day has been a challenge, but he continues to grows stronger and more independent. Jamal is living proof that we can do anything that we put our minds to.

We congratulate Jamal on his achievements!