For Karen, Cedar Lake Lodge has always been a part of her life. Her mother used to donate regularly to the Cedar Lake pickup service, and now, years later, Karen finds herself eternally grateful that Cedar Lake is home to her son, John.
John moved to Cedar Lake Lodge in March 2024, but his journey to get there started much earlier. Diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome at age two, John’s childhood was filled with love, care, and a carefully structured routine. He attended Stone Street Elementary, which had a special needs class, and later, Churchill Park School, a dedicated school for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “John was blessed with the opportunity to go to the right schools growing up,” Karen recalls. But as John aged, Karen knew there would come a time when she would need help with his care.
Growing Up
When John was 18, Karen put him on the waitlist for Cedar Lake Lodge, understanding that it could take years for him to secure a spot. “He was on the waitlist for almost ten years,” Karen says. “I wasn’t prepared for him to move out when the time came, but it was the right decision.” Letting go was difficult, but Karen knew that Cedar Lake was the best place for John to thrive.
And thrive he has. John, who is non-verbal, has found joy in his new home. “He’s happy all the time,” Karen beams. “He loves participating in activities, especially music and pep rallies. He’s included in everything, and it means so much to him.”
Cedar Lake has given John the opportunity to flourish in ways that would have been impossible at home. “He’s gained weight, he eats better, and he’s thriving with the routine,” Karen adds. “He loves being out and about—he rocks his body in his wheelchair when he’s excited. I can tell he’s truly happy.”
Making the Important Decision
For Karen, moving John to Cedar Lake was both a heart-wrenching and hopeful experience. “The first day he was gone, it felt like a huge punch to the gut. I didn’t know what to do,” she admits. “I missed his smile, the routine we had at home. But now, I’m so grateful because he’s doing so much more at Cedar Lake than I could have imagined.”
One of the greatest comforts for Karen is knowing that John is not only cared for but is thriving in a compassionate and supportive environment. “The staff at Cedar Lake are incredible,” she says. “They show so much compassion and empathy. Every interaction I’ve had with them has been positive. Their actions and responses are amazing, and I know John is in the best hands.”
A nurse by profession, Karen’s background helped her care for John at home, but as he grew, the demands became more challenging. “It’s a hard life caring for a child with special needs. As they get older and bigger, it becomes harder to pick them up and go about your day. You become isolated,” she explains. “Moving him to Cedar Lake was the best decision we ever made, knowing that if something happens to me, he will still be cared for.”
John’s Progress
John’s progress at Cedar Lake has been remarkable. He now accepts brushing his teeth, something he used to resist, and as a reward, he gets to play in the water, one of his favorite activities. “The staff have done amazing work with him,” Karen says proudly. “They have routines in place, and he’s made so much progress.”
Though Karen misses John dearly, she visits him every weekend, finding comfort in seeing him thrive. Her advice to other parents in similar situations? “Your loved one will flourish. Cedar Lake is an incredible place, and your family member will thrive here. It’s hard to let go, but it’s the best decision you can make for them.”
Karen’s greatest relief comes from knowing that John is safe, loved, and in a place that feels like home. “I was always worried that if something happened to me, John would end up in a nursing home. Now, I have peace of mind. Cedar Lake is his home, and he’s where he belongs.”
For Karen and John, Cedar Lake is more than a facility—it’s family.
