For Jeff and Holly Rutko, the birth of their first child, Bella, was one of the happiest moments of their lives. The new parents felt fortunate to have experienced a normal pregnancy and delivery.

While every child develops differently, the Rutkos couldn't shake the thought that something was potentially wrong with their daughter. They took her for countless tests, beginning a journey for answers that would last close to fifteen months.

Two days after her 2nd birthday, Bella was diagnosed with Rett syndrome - a rare neurological disorder of the brain -which explained how the seemingly normal little girl had progressed as expected through her first six months of life before regressing.

While every child develops differently, the Rutkos couldn't shake the thought that something was potentially wrong with their daughter. They took her for countless tests, beginning a journey for answers that would last close to fifteen months.

Two days after her 2nd birthday, Bella was diagnosed with Rett syndrome - a rare neurological disorder of the brain -which explained how the seemingly normal little girl had progressed as expected through her first six months of life before regressing.

"Even though we had been searching for answers for months, I can't begin to describe how difficult it was for us to hear Bella's diagnosis," recalls Holly.

Knowing their daughter needed specialized schooling and therapy, Jeff and Holly toured "more places than we can remember" before being introduced to Meeting Street. From the moment they stepped in the door, the Rutkos knew Meeting Street was the best place for Bella.

"We were in tears once we realized no other place could measure up to what Meeting Street has to offer," says Jeff. "The day she got in was absolutely amazing, like a giant weight had been lifted off our shoulders."

Now five years old, Bella has been at Meeting Street for nearly three years. Her constant progress has impressed our staff and her family as well as those who have treated Bella over the years.

Initially being unable to crawl or pull herself up, Bella is now scooting independently and taking unassisted steps. With the help of our occupational therapists, she has also dramatically improved her motor skills and hand use.

Just as important, the Rutkos have noticed impressive progress in both Bella's education and confidence, which they attribute to our inclusive environment. Using basic sign language and a special Tobii speech-generating device, Bella is able to communicate with her teachers and friends. Academically, she is also identifying colors and numbers.

"Inclusion is so important. I truly believe it's the reason she's gained so much confidence and assertiveness," says Jeff. "We get emotional when we watch her interact with her friends. It's something we thought we may not have ever seen."

While Bella still has a long road ahead of her, Jeff and Holly couldn't be happier knowing that Meeting Street will be there every step of the way.

"There's no question that Bella wouldn't have made the progress she has at any other school. Every day, she's learning and trying new things. We now have expectations and dreams for her that we thought we lost before Meeting Street entered our lives," says Jeff.