#Elmira'sDream

Her Story As the 1950's came to a close, the Shepherd Family was blessed with a little bundle of joy who arrived a little earlier than anticipated-3 months early to be exact. Elmira (known as Myra by family and friends) was not expected to survive infancy, but God's grace, prayers and a sugar-water solution provided sufficient nourishment such that she was able to be brought home from the hospital after a period of one month. Elmira's lack of development in the area of muscular and motor skills became evident before her first birthday when it was observed that she was unable to focus on moving objects as readily as other infants, or that by age two she was unable to sit up or balance while standing. These challenges, however did not stop her from playing with toys or engaging in rough-housing with her sister. The 1960s and 1970s were a time period in which Myra and her friends had to attend schools for students with disabilities. Those also were the days of few if any ramps, "broken down" curbs to allow wheelchair access, and widened doors. Elmira and her classmates were really the pioneers of the local Cerebral Palsy telethons held in years past.  Later, her educational experiences are innumerable and she has excelled. Elmira is a proud member of the Nu Delta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Birmingham Southern College 1993-1994. Elmira is a very avid reader, and perhaps the biggest fan of Stevie Wonder anywhere. Her greatest joy is serving as Church School Superintendent / Adult Women's Class teacher at the Bethel A.M.E. Church in the Rosedale area of Homewood, Alabama. Bethel Rosedale as it is affectionately called, is a historical church which celebrates over 130 years of praise, worship and community service. We are inspired by our Pastor's vision and our spiritual commitment as well. We have a responsibility to all humankind. It is our goal and our commitment to make all aspects of the sanctuary and fellowship area accessible to all individuals who are physically challenged. We are confident that with God's help through our many Facebook friends, friends of friends, relatives, colleagues and those we hope to become better acquainted will make Elmira's Dream a reality.    Your commitment is God's reality...and it shall be done. Elmira's Dream Committee