MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Autumn and Kalob Mattix know the challenges of early parenthood firsthand. All three of their sons, including 3-year-old Winston, were born prematurely and faced complications. Winston’s early struggles have led to ongoing developmental delays, requiring extensive medical and therapeutic intervention.

“It’s nothing but battles,” Autumn Mattix said, describing the constant stream of doctor’s visits and tests. Winston’s diagnoses include hearing loss, speech challenges, tongue movement complications affecting feeding, and severe expressive and language impairment.

The couple credits the Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Marion County DD) Early Intervention Program and Help Me Grow for providing critical support. “Before we were looped in with Marion County DD, it felt like we were playing ‘word Jenga.’ It was so hard to figure out what Winston’s wants and needs were, you just had to guess,” Kalob Mattix said.

Autumn Mattix praised Ciarra Shelton, their Developmental Specialist from Marion County DD, for providing tools to improve Winston’s speech and communication through pictures. “It was just nice to have someone to help us track his progress and help us see that he was reaching goals,” she said.

Winston proudly standing in front of his billboard in Marion County where he is raising awareness for those like him.
(Photo: Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities)

Winston recently “graduated” from the Early Intervention program, leaving the family to navigate the next phase of his development. “We often see families encounter this struggle after leaving Early Intervention and entering the school system,” said Angie Farson, Director of Program and Compliance at Marion County DD. “We are working on improving collaboration with the school districts to ensure a smoother transition for families.”

The Mattix family is now navigating the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process through the school system, adding another layer of complexity. Despite the challenges, they remain determined.

“Advocating can be so tiring and there are days that we just want to give up. But then we see progress, and it recharges us to keep fighting,” Autumn Mattix said.

The couple emphasized the importance of focusing on milestones and celebrating small victories. They also acknowledged the support of their family, who help care for Winston’s older brothers, Bentley, 8, and Kayson, 4.

The Marion County DD continues to provide services to the family and encourages others to seek support. “The small rewards are the fuel for all involved in the success of those in the Marion Community with developmental disabilities,” the organization said.

For more information about Marion County DD services, visit marioncountydd.org or follow them on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.