“It gives him something meaningful to do during the day,” said Terry, who retired in 2017 from Fairfield City Schools after 31 years of teaching.
When COVID-19 halted daytime rehabilitation programs, Terry said there weren’t many options for Bobby. They participate in the Butler County Challenger League, and since the Special Olympics have been canceled for 2020, Bobby and Terry are training bowls at the Miracle League.
They also throw a Frisbee at the park and spend time playing board games in addition to the occupational therapy work they do at home.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced in June the beginning of the reopening of day camps and residential camps for those with disabilities. Terry isn’t sure when she and her husband, Harry, will feel comfortable sending their son back to adult rehab facilities.
Since starting mini golf, Terry has seen improvements with Bobby, including hand-to-hand coordination, balance, and fine motor skills, and he’s been better at taking turns since playing on the course designed for the disabled.
“(The miniature golf course) is something that can independently,” he said. “We have fun together and we really have fun.”
But the Zornows didn’t start playing the minigolf course as soon as it opened, Terry said. Kim Nuxhall, the volunteer CEO of the Miracle League, invited them to play.
“Originally, the pitch was built for our Miracle League kids (and adults) here, but why not,” Nuxhall said. “Our course should be open to anyone.”
Terry said she is “very grateful” for the League of Miracles and says it is “a gift” that is “meaningful”.
Nuxhall said last Saturday, which was the start of the fall youth league at the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League, “it was just the perfect day.” Not only were both fields filled with young baseball players, but the minigolf was also packed.
“It was great,” Nuxhall said. “The coolest thing about this from day one is when parents come to you in tears and thank us for what we have created. It is truly humiliating. “
