Chelsea’s Voice, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families with disabilities, is set to celebrate its 34th anniversary with a community block party on March 22, 2024. The event honors the journey of Chelsea Fabiszak, who was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome, a severe neurodevelopmental disorder, at a young age. Despite being expected to live only until the age of nine, Chelsea is now a vibrant part of her community at 34, inspiring those around her.
Chelsea’s story is one of resilience. Though she faces significant challenges, including being bound to a wheelchair and unable to walk, talk, or eat independently, she remains an inspirational figure. Chelsea is an honorary member of the San Diego State University Dance Team and enjoys attending local country music shows. Her experiences have fueled the mission of Chelsea’s Voice, which aims to assist families navigating the complexities of disabilities.
Veleria Pittman-Fabiszak, Chelsea’s mother and the founder of Chelsea’s Voice, expressed the overwhelming challenges families face. “Families are overwhelmed with therapies, appointments, education battles, and medical issues,” she noted. “Advocating becomes exhausting. We want Chelsea’s Voice to be a place where people can say, ‘I need help,’ and not feel alone.”
The upcoming block party promises to be a lively, family-friendly affair featuring live music from the Busted Spurs Duo, face painting, line dancing, and a chili and rib cook-off. Pittman-Fabiszak intentionally chose a casual setting for the event to encourage participation and community engagement. “My philosophy is spend less, make more,” she remarked. “If you can have fun while doing it, even better.”
In addition to providing families with practical help like medical equipment and respite care, Chelsea’s Voice aims to foster emotional support. Pittman-Fabiszak emphasized the importance of compassion in a community, saying, “Sometimes, it starts with just showing up for each other.”
The nonprofit began in 2018 as a grassroots effort, raising over $18,000 during its first event. Unfortunately, the momentum was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the cancellation of its major fundraiser in March 2020. In response, Pittman-Fabiszak adapted the organization’s approach, implementing smaller fundraising initiatives and delivering holiday gifts to families across San Diego County during isolation.
Reflecting on the pandemic, Pittman-Fabiszak recalled dressing up as Mrs. Claus and visiting isolated families to offer support. “That was really special,” she said, recalling how unexpected visits brought joy to families during a difficult time.
However, the nonprofit’s activities took a back seat as Chelsea encountered serious health challenges, including long hospital stays. Pittman-Fabiszak also faced personal struggles, including a divorce, but she remained committed to relaunching Chelsea’s Voice. “While being in the hospital, I knew I needed to make Chelsea’s Voice something,” she shared. “Chelsea is going through these things for a reason. Her story is not done.”
The need for social connection is paramount for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers, according to Pittman-Fabiszak. She has witnessed firsthand how Chelsea’s health improves when she engages with others. “When she’s around people and stimulation, she’s more alert, she’s smiling, she’s more engaged,” Pittman-Fabiszak explained. “When that’s taken away, she regresses. Humans are meant to be around other humans.”
To further enhance community engagement, Pittman-Fabiszak is spearheading the development of an accessible playground at Spreckels Park. She believes it is crucial to create spaces where individuals with disabilities are visible and included in the community. “It’s important to have the community open and accessible,” she stated. “It’s not a playground for those with disabilities. It’s a playground for everyone.”
Pittman-Fabiszak has been actively communicating with city leaders to revive efforts aimed at improving recreational options in Coronado, emphasizing the importance of inclusive spaces for children of all abilities. She maintains that enhancing the community for those with disabilities ultimately benefits everyone.
“I never wanted Chelsea to impede anyone else’s experience,” she noted, adding that time spent with individuals like Chelsea can enrich the lives of others. “If you spend time with Chelsea, she makes you better at whatever you do.”
The impact of Chelsea’s story extends beyond her immediate circle. Mothers who have known Chelsea have expressed gratitude for her involvement in initiatives like Girl Scouts, stating that their experiences with Chelsea have informed their own parenting journeys.
Pittman-Fabiszak believes that fostering exposure is key to creating a community where individuals with disabilities are included and visible. “When people hear the real story — the hardships and the victories — they connect,” she said. “This isn’t just about one family. This is about building a community where no one feels isolated.”
Chelsea’s Voice is actively seeking board members, volunteers, and student involvement, particularly from local teens interested in contributing skills in areas such as video production, website development, or event support. To connect with Chelsea’s Voice, interested individuals can reach out to Veleria Pittman-Fabiszak at 619-996-3046.
