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1,033 Sunflower Families Served,
and Counting!
About Laila’s Gift
Since our inception in 2022, Laila’s Gift® has touched the lives of over 1,000 families, empowering not only the children, but also their siblings and caregivers to thrive together
Founded by mom Shari Bailey, and stepdad Michael Nash, Laila’s Gift® emerged from a personal journey with their daughter, Laila and her twin sister Lana.
On September 5, 2014, Laila and Lana were born at Johns Hopkins hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. While Lana was considered healthy at birth, Laila was diagnosed with Jacobsen Syndrome, a rare condition tied to devasting fatality rates and affecting fewer than 100 children globally at that time. Based on statistics, 25% of children with Jacobsen Syndrome don’t see their second birthday. This meant every birthday was extra special for their family. Laila and her twin sister Lana are now 10 years old, but the journey is far from over and has taught their family there are thousands of families like theirs who celebrate victories (both big or small) in silence.
Despite facing overwhelming health challenges, Laila has demonstrated incredible resilience, overcoming obstacles that would challenge many. Meanwhile, Shari and Michael have navigated the world of caregiving, and Lana has skillfully navigated the unique experience of being a special needs sibling, ultimately leading her to create Zigglebee®—Laila’s Gifts’ cheerful mascot that embodies the spirit of inclusiveness and kindness.
Laila’s Gift is a nonprofit, tax exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and is a registered Non-Profit Organization in Maryland. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law.
A Glimpse into Our Sunflower Celebrations
Since establishing Laila’s Gift, we have become the voice of the special needs & disability community.” With “Celebrations matter and here are a few reasons why you should become a Celebrator!
A voice of the special needs and disability community
Laila’s Gift has quickly emerged as a vital voice for the special needs and disability community, providing essential support for families navigating the unique challenges they face.
What sets Laila’s Gift apart is its foundation led by parents who share a deep personal connection to the mission, as Laila herself has a rare syndrome. This personal experience drives the organization to celebrate all children with special needs and disabilities, fostering an inclusive environment that distinguishes it from other nonprofits that often focus on specific syndromes or conditions. Recognizing that it may be unlikely for Laila to connect with networks related solely to her syndrome, Laila’s Gift is creating a welcoming platform for families like hers, where they can find solidarity and connection regardless of their child’s condition. Symbolically represented by the sunflower, Laila’s Gift nurtures each small seed, helping it to grow into beautiful blossoms and reinforcing the belief that every child deserves to thrive within an inclusive community; flourishing together amidst the diverse blooms across the sunflower community.
We are proud to be unduplicated in our offerings in the nation.
Laila’s Gift has been Featured On
Laila’s Gift has been featured across several platforms showcasing the joy of community support underpinned by the heartfelt gift of inclusion our nonprofit provides
