Grace C Mae is the miraculous child of Scott and Patti Gilbaugh, the founders of the Grace C Mae Advocate Center. Their journey as advocates for their daughter is a testimony of how dedicated parents really can make a difference in a child that others deemed as “hopeless.”
Grace was expected to not survive birth, but she did. Doctors told Scott and Patti that Grace would most likely never walk, would be intellectually disabled, and most likely die within a few weeks or months. Scott and Patti heavily advocated for Grace’s well-being, aggressive medical treatment, and early cognitive interventions. More importantly, they partnered with the array of providers who gave expertise and guidance for Grace’s care.
Now, Grace is a thriving teen who is very bright, has a great sense of humor, and demonstrates daily to those around her that she is truly amazing. Scott and Patti founded the Grace C Mae Advocate Center to honor Grace’s journey to fight for her right to thrive, despite all odds, and for them to pay forward the blessings they were given.
Press Coverage
Meredith Hines-Dochterman
Cedar Rapids Gazette, 2/15/2013
Social Workers in the Corridor, Nationwide Deal with More than Welfare Issues
Katie Mills Giorgio
Cedar Rapids Gazette, 10/13/2013
David Alexander
Marshalltown Times-Republican, 2/9/2013