Anne Coyne and Joe Sullivan
How long have you been connected with David’s Refuge?
Since 2019
Please explain any diagnosis your child has, and you have experience with.
Our son, Matthew, was diagnosed with a very rare neurogenic disorder called Angelman syndrome. At the time there were fewer than 200 known cases in the world. Previously called happy puppets syndrome, because of their unusually happy dispositions. Prone to seizure, he also has a sleep disorder and is nonverbal.
What is your favorite part of being a host?
We love the sharing of each other’s stories and seeing the guests enjoy their break from their day-to-day routines.
What is something you want your guests to know about you?
Ann and Joe have been married for 18 years and have 4 children and 4 grandchildren.
Not their first time around! Kids range from 41 to 32.
What is a piece of advice you have found invaluable as a family with experience in special needs or a medically fragile diagnosis?
Emotional, spiritual, and physical health are the three legs to a well-balanced life.
Self-care is not selfish. It’s critical that you care for your well-being if you are expected to be caring for those you love.
Which partner location is your favorite and why?
This is a tough one because each location has been different and special in its own way. If we had to select one it would be The Colgate Inn followed by several close seconds!
A genie grants you the ability to have infinite amount of one item. What is it?
Perfect health.
What is a question you wish people would ask you less?
What is Matthew’s life expectancy?