Emilee is a fifteen-year-old with a nervous system disorder from a small town in North Idaho.
She’s a fixture in the community. Everyone there knows her and cares about her. She’s nonverbal, and although she’s generally sweet and good-natured, she can get fussy when she’s frustrated and uncomfortable. She’s almost completely dependent on her parents who sometimes have trouble finding ways to soothe her.
Although Emilee can’t speak, it’s easy to tell how she’s feeling. She has a smile that will light up a room and her laughter is infectious. She’s happiest in the water, swimming and splashing. However, her condition makes travel difficult, so going to the beach can be problematic and the access at swimming pools can be hit or miss. Plus, it tends to get cold in North Idaho, so there’s a large portion of the year where Emilee can't swim at all.
”Emilee loves to be in the water. When she’s in the water, her hands will open up. The hot tub affords freedom of movement, makes exercise easier and just plain gives pleasure and comfort to her body and well-being," said Emilee's mom, Amanda.
Emilee wished for a hot tub, and in July of 2020, her wish came true. A hot tub provides a safe, accessible water source for Emilee to enjoy. There’s no travel involved, and unlike a beach, a hot tub can be used during the coldest months of winter.
"Emilee lights up over her gift and loves it. She has been in the hot tub every day since it arrived. She didn’t understand what it was until she got in it. When she got in it, her face just lit up. It was instant smiles," Amanda said.
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