January is a time of new beginnings. At the YAI Network, we’re kicking off the New Year with a new beginning of our own – we’re launching the 2011 YAI and Broadview Networks Central Park Challenge campaign. And the people representing this year’s event know firsthand how a fresh start can truly change a life.

YAI Network spokesperson Sherri Shepherd of ABC’s “The View” will once again help spread the word about this year’s event. Sherri experienced a whole new world of hope and opportunity when her son, who has developmental delays, enrolled in a YAI Network preschool and quickly began to flourish.

Today, Sherri is helping the YAI Network launch our 2011 Central Park Challenge campaign by sharing another inspirational story about the power of a new beginning.

 
Meet Xi’Xi, a Little Girl with a Big Heart

Born in China with developmental and physical disabilities, Norma Xi’an McLaughlin, nicknamed Xi’Xi (pronounced She-She), was adopted as an infant by New York City residents Patrick McLaughlin and Cindy Klaja-McLaughlin. Their visit to China was intended to be just one stop on the couple’s year-long trip around the world. While in the country, however, Patrick and Cindy volunteered at a home for abandoned children with special needs; it was there that their lives were instantly changed.

“You could see the life in her eyes,” said Cindy, recalling her instant connection with Xi’Xi.

“I knew immediately that I could not leave the country without this little girl,” Patrick said.  And so began a new chapter in Xi’Xi’s story.

Last summer, at age 3, Xi’Xi began attending the YAI Network’s Gramercy preschool in Manhattan. With the support of YAI teachers, staff and her parents, the little girl who could not walk without the use of a walker and who could only speak in two word sentences is reaching new milestones. Today, Xi’Xi moves around her classroom with a contagious smile, relying on a walker only minimally. Her enthusiasm and ambition have even led her to start tackling stairs. She engages with her classmates and teachers, making friends and melting hearts along the way.
 
"Pat and I are so honored and proud that Xi'Xi has been chosen to represent the 2011 Central Park Challenge,” said Cindy. “She is a testament to what can happen when a child receives the love, attention and quality care of top professionals such as the people at the YAI Network. Thanks to their support, our beautiful child is thriving in an environment that I wish for every parent's child.”

Xi’Xi’s favorite book is “Oh! The Places You’ll Go,” which is only fitting for a little girl who has been on such an incredible journey.

“Xi’Xi and Sherri are teaming up to spread the word about the Central Park Challenge,” added Cindy. “But this is also an opportunity to share Xi’Xi’s heartwarming story, which I believe will give hope to so many people in so many ways.”

In the coming months, stay connected to the YAI Network and Sherri Shepherd by visiting yai.org. Here, you can receive updates on Xi’Xi’s progress  and read why Xi’Xi continues to be an inspiration to everyone she meets.

Join Sherri Shepherd, her new friend Xi’Xi, and thousands of others on Saturday June 4 at YAI and Broadview Networks 2011 Central Park Challenge. Register today to walk, run and change lives for people with disabilities!