Diagnosis Opens a New Dimension for Van Ahn Family

Soon after the birth of his first child, David Van Ahn had a feeling that something wasn't quite right. Doctors would confirm those fears hours later with the news that his daughter, Meri, had likely suffered a birth condition that would impact her development. Eventually, Meri was diagnosed with athethoid cerebral palsy, a movement disorder caused by damage to the developing brain.

This experience introduced David to the special needs community. More than 50 years later, he reflects back on this life-changing event with gratitude and counts his blessings.

"Meri has been the catalyst for expanding the dimensions of my life, above and beyond the normal realm," David says. "As a result of her health condition, I've had the opportunity to meet many wonderful, high-achieving people and to become involved with great organizations serving this special population. She's taught me patience, thoughtfulness, compassion and how to reorder priorities."

At age 3, Meri moved to Iowa City where she attended hospital schools and was first taught how to communicate using word boards. Later, she would learn how to write and type using her head, and eventually how to speak with the help of a speech therapist.

Meri's development continued when she was placed at the Convalescent Home for Children, what is now known as ChildServe. She started at the original facility at 28th and Grand in Des Moines and moved to the new location in Johnston when it opened in 1981. She attended Johnston schools and earned her high school diploma in 1987. Meri then moved into ChildServe's Beaverdale group home and later transitioned to adult facilities where she continues to enjoy greater independence with a caregiver providing basic needs.

"I love the computer, understand it well, and it gives me the opportunity to communicate with family and friends since not everyone can understand me when I talk," Meri says. "I also use the computer as a form of entertainment by working puzzles, playing cards and tile games, and designing my own Christmas letter."

"I don't spend hours thinking about why I am like I am; I just continue doing my best with what the good Lord gave me. I am able to maintain my positive attitude because of the wonderful support given by family and friends," she says.

Meri, now 50 years old, lives in a group home in West Des Moines. She has worked part-time as a secretary for a non-profit organization.

David and his wife, Jackie, a retired vice president of human resources for Kirke-Van Orsdel, Inc., now live at Lake Panorama.

The Lake City, Iowa native retired after operating a successful insurance agency that specialized in offering life and health insurance products to small businesses. Another daughter, Janis, now operates the business. Prior to that role, he taught and coached for 20 years in high schools at West Union, Tripoli and West Des Moines Valley. David has a long affiliation with volunteer service at ChildServe—first serving on the Board of Directors and later on the Board of Trustees. He was instrumental in an effort to build the Beaverdale group home and active in promoting ChildServe's annual Golf FORE! the Kids fundraising event, which will celebrate its 25th year in 2018.

Meri has named ChildServe as the beneficiary of a life insurance policy and has qualified for membership in the ChildServe Legacy Society, a recognition society established to honor those individuals and families who have included the organization as a beneficiary of their estate plans.

"ChildServe is an organization that puts the child with disabilities at the forefront," David says. "They were a tremendous resource for us during a challenging period of our lives. We want to ensure this organization stays strong and vibrant into the future."

Extend Your Commitment

Your future gift to ChildServe helps us, as well as our families, plan for the future with confidence. Contact Colleen Rogers Messenger CAP® at colleen@childserve.org or 515-251-5572 to learn about your giving options.