Five years ago, on a Christmas Eve shrouded in mist, Dyanna McILwain received a gift beyond measure. She went to pick up her great-granddaughter, Ranee-Jessie, for a holiday visit, bracing herself for a week of joyful moments. But fate had a different plan, a twist that would forever alter the course of her life.
The foster mother’s tears spoke volumes as she handed Ranee-Jessie over. A Children’s Aid worker delivered the stunning news: Dyanna wasn’t just receiving a visitor, she was receiving a daughter. “She’s yours for good,” they said, words that echoed with a weight of love and responsibility. That Christmas became the most cherished of Dyanna’s 73 years.
Now, surrounded by the vibrant energy of Variety Village’s Christmas party, Dyanna watches Ranee-Jessie thrive. The fieldhouse buzzes with laughter, games, and the sweet scent of cookies. Wheelchairs glide alongside walkers, a testament to the inclusive spirit of this remarkable place. It’s a scene of pure joy, a world away from the sadness that once defined Ranee-Jessie’s early life.
Ranee-Jessie, a bright-eyed five-year-old with a contagious giggle, has quickly become a beloved figure at Variety Village. They’ve already asked her to be an ambassador, and one look at her radiant face explains why. Her story is one of resilience, a testament to the power of love and second chances.
The details of Ranee-Jessie’s past – a story of addiction and family hardship – fade in importance when witnessing her present joy. What truly matters is the little girl who just launched herself into a bouncy castle, her laughter echoing through the fieldhouse. “I wouldn’t give her up for the world,” Dyanna says, her voice thick with emotion. “She’s my reason for living.”
Ranee-Jessie loves all things pink, the freedom of swimming, and the thrill of learning new things, like somersaults. Her kindergarten teacher recognizes a budding musical talent, and her vocabulary is already impressively vast. She affectionately calls Dyanna “Momma,” a simple word that encapsulates a profound bond.
Just weeks after that life-changing Christmas Eve, Ranee-Jessie faced another challenge: three hours of heart surgery, a common necessity for children with Down syndrome. Though she’s only just beginning to notice the scars, they haven’t dimmed her spirit. They are simply a part of her story, a reminder of her strength.
With Dyanna and a friendly newspaperman by her side, Ranee-Jessie fearlessly approaches Santa Claus, gently tugging at his beard with a curious squint. She’s a whirlwind of energy, then dashes off to decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus, waving enthusiastically at the camera. She’s a natural ambassador, radiating warmth and joy.
Last summer, a fellow parent suggested Variety Village and its incredible summer camps. Dyanna recounts Ranee-Jessie’s enthusiastic departure: “Bye, Momma!” and she was off, immersed in swimming and park adventures. It was a turning point. “After a week, I knew this was the place for her,” Dyanna says, praising the amazing staff, including Gina, who is teaching Ranee-Jessie sign language.
The change was remarkable. Ranee-Jessie was happier, more engaged, and less reliant on screens. She now attends the Village’s Social Explorers program, learning valuable life skills like sharing, following rules, and managing emotions. Skills, Dyanna notes, that could benefit everyone. Even grocery shopping became an adventure, filled with cheerful greetings and gentle reminders to reciprocate kindness.
Looking ahead, Ranee-Jessie dreams of becoming a doctor, already practicing with her toy medical kit, dispensing advice like “Wait five minutes” or “Get some rest.” Dyanna, aware of the preciousness of time, prays for the strength to witness her great-granddaughter’s journey, hoping to see her flourish well into adulthood. “At least I know she can always come here,” she says, finding comfort in the Village’s unwavering support.
But for now, Ranee-Jessie is lost in the magic of the Christmas party, sprinting off on another adventure. “She’s got your phone!” Dyanna calls out with a laugh, and the chase begins. It’s a scene of pure, unadulterated joy, a testament to the extraordinary bond between a great-grandmother and her cherished daughter.
