RAVE Executive Director Rique Robb wrote,  "For the first half of this fiscal year, our success story comes from a child who has touched more lives in her 17 months of life than I could ever hope to touch in mine.  In March of 2010, her parents learned that Danielle* (pseudonym) had been diagnosed with a rare and fatal genetic disease for which there is no cure.  Danielle had been attending RAVE as a sibling (without a disability) with her older brother, Ernie*, who has autism.  When her parents learned of her illness, rather than secluding her from all outside contact, they continued to bring her to RAVE, so that she could have fun and interact with other children before her disease took over. 

 Danielle entered the gates of Heaven on August 3, 2010.  Four of RAVE's staff members attended her funeral and celebrated all of the brightness that Danielle brought to the world, and her parents showed their appreciation for RAVE by having donations sent to our organization in Danielle's name.  Two weeks to the day after she passed, we had a respite session at the Center.  Danielle's mother, Audrey*, brought Ernie to the session. The mom was still very fresh with emotions from the loss of her baby girl, but she managed to thank us, and tell us how she appreciated the support she received from us when Danielle was ill.  She continues to bring her son to RAVE, and he has talked about his sister, in the way that only a big brother could, and we continue to celebrate the legacy that she has left us with.  I can honestly say that without respite, this family would have suffered greatly, but because of the support that we were able to provide them with, they have touched our lives with their strength.  We are honored to have made a difference in their lives."