young woman stands on a dock

Diana Maria Hernandez, age 13

Photograph by Michele Hutchinson (2021)

Diana “Nena” Hernandez sees and appreciates beauty in the world. Her family says when they are with her they live in moments of laughter and Nena makes them feel special. She is a joy and a sweetheart.
Nena enjoys every moment she is in school. She also loves music, food, dancing, and her teddy bears. She adores her dog, Hunter. Nena’s daddy is her superhero!

Nena has a diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism. In the beginning, her mom found it difficult because “a parent hurts when they know their child struggles.” Over time, Nena has overcome many challenges, stayed strong, and is always happy.

Mom, Diana, calls Nena her angel: “I would not trade Nena for anything in this world, and I am so thankful for everything I have learned by her side.”

 


Diana “Nena” Hernández ve y aprecia la belleza en el mundo. Su familia dice que cuando están con ella viven momentos de alegrías y risas; Nena los hace sentir muy especiales. Ella es una alegría y un amor.

Nena disfruta cada momento que está en la escuela. También le gusta la música, la comida, el baile y sus osos de peluche. Adora a su perro, Hunter. El padre de Nena es su superhéroe.

Nena tiene un diagnóstico de síndrome de Down y autismo. Al principio, a su madre le resultaba difícil porque “uno cuando sabe que su hija sufre”. Con el tiempo, Nena ha superado muchos retos, se ha mantenido fuerte y siempre es feliz.

La mamá llama a Nena su ángel: “No cambiaría a Nena por nada en este mundo, y estoy muy agradecida por todo lo que he aprendido a su lado”.

Family Connection of South Carolina provides services and resources to families who have a child with a disability or specialized healthcare need. Since 1990 we have served more than 100,000 families and today our services are needed more than ever. We focus on parent-to-parent support, guidance with navigating the complex healthcare system, and assistance with school meetings and special education plans.

Sign up for our newsletter!