JACKSON – The 2nd Annual Jake’s Got This Benefit featuring township police versus township firefighters playing softball will be held at 2 p.m. on May 6, at Shoretown Ball Park Stadium in Lakewood Township.
Jackson resident Shannon Kulesa is the president of the Jake’s Got This Foundation. Her son Jake was the inspiration for forming the 501c charity organization. She said, “the winner will face off against a team of special needs warriors.”
The benefit event will raise funds for children with cerebral palsy. The charity was created by family and friends of Jake Kulesa who at just 13 months old, received a diagnosis of PVL infant brain damage which ultimately led to the diagnosis of cerebral palsy.
At the time of his diagnosis his parents were told Jake would never walk, never sit up independently and probably never talk. This was not a predication his family was willing to accept. Through years of early intervention, out of the box intensive therapies, specialized care and speech, Jake is now talking, sitting up independently and is slowly beginning to walk more and more independently.
His mother said, “Here at Jake’s Got This we look to provide guidance and recommendations from experience, help navigating the world of health insurance and support to families with children under the age of 18. We look to connect families with the resources they need as well as other families who understand the daily struggles we face.”
She added that the group is always open to new ideas and therapies “to help our kids get stronger each day. If you have a favorite therapy or doctor, we’d love to hear about them.”
Kulesa added, “all we ask in return is to pay it forward. Help others with all you learn and do what you can to help others through each day.”
The field is located at 2 Stadium Way in Lakewood Township. Admission is $20 and free for children under the age of 10. Tickets can be purchased by visiting jakesgotthis.org.
