Angelman Syndrome: Matthew’s Story
Used by permission of Jim
and Faith (Matthew’s Parents)
You may contact Jim and Faith at
jf.schneider@juno.com
 Let us introduce you to our son Matthew. He is a special
little boy because God allowed Matthew to have a genetic disorder by the name of
"Angelman Syndrome". Angelman Syndrome is often misdiagnosed as
cerebral palsy or autism. The syndrome was discovered by a pediatrician in
England by the name of Harry Angelman in 1965, hence its name. Children with AS
are affectionately known as "angels."
Matthew is missing a piece of his 15th chromosome and that is
what has caused his AS. Due to this disorder Matthew is nonverbal so he is
unable to tell you hello, but his very big smile and happy laugh is his
"Hi" to you.
- Here is a list of some general characteristics of children
with AS:
- Lack of speech
- Hyperactivity
- Very happy demeanor
- Sleep disturbance
- Wide gait or stiff walk
- Seizure disorder
- Fascination with water and plastic
- Global developmental delay
- Hands and arms that flap especially when excited
Angelman Syndrome affects both boys and girls. There are
approximately 1500 cases known in the United States alone with many additional
known cases around the world.
Matthew is continuous care and will always require
assistance. Despite the special needs Matthew has, our family knows that God
placed Matthew into our family for a special reason. Matthew has two brothers
and a sister that are great helpers. They encourage and help Matthew in
achieving the most that he can. It is because each of us has a personal faith in
Jesus Christ that we know God has made no mistake and is allowing this for good.
We have a great peace and confidence in God and know that nothing ever takes Him
by surprise.
Perhaps you are being tested by adversity. Maybe you or a
loved one is also disabled in some way. Perhaps there are intense struggles you
are facing in your life, pressures coming from your job, your family or other
areas and you are wondering if you will be able to handle the situation or if
you’re going to be able to cope thru another day.
The source of our strength is from God and this began with a personal
relationship with Him. The Bible tells us that everyone has sinned (Romans
3:23)
and that sin separates us from God (Romans 6:23). God loves us so much that He
sent His only begotten Son, the Lord Jesus, to die and shed His own blood to pay
the penalty for our sin (John 3:16, Romans 5:8). Jesus arose again and later
ascended to Heaven where He is today. All we need to do is accept this free gift
from God (John 1:12, Ephesians 2:8-9). We cannot earn salvation, but it is
offered to us freely.
Simply but sincerely pray to God, "Dear God, I know I am a
sinner. I believe Jesus Christ paid the penalty for my sin. I now receive Him as
my personal Savior. In Jesus Name Amen."
Though your life ahead may not always be easy, God will give you the grace
and the strength to meet the challenges each new day brings. God will never
leave you or forsake you, but will give you a peace and joy that you never could
experience before. Allow God to meet your needs today.
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