It started with a chance encounter at a Make-A-Wish event. Chris Shee, Founder of MasterCraft Builder Group, met with Skyla and her parents, Kate and Dusten, and was moved by her journey with Rett’s Syndrome, a condition that has left her non-ambulatory and non-verbal.
MasterCraft is widely known for shaping communities as a premier home builder and developer. Hearing Skyla’s story, Chris reached out to MasterCraft’s transformative Disaster Restoration Division, which takes on remodeling projects and assists homeowners in recovering from damaging storms, fires, floods, and natural disasters.
“Chris said he felt a calling to help this family in need and wanted my team to take on this special project,” said Leigh Johnson, Vice President of Disaster Restoration for MasterCraft. “I drove down to Palm Coast, met the family, and immediately felt the same connection Chris did. After meeting them and seeing Skyla, I knew we had to make it happen.”
Before the renovation, Kate, Dusten, and Dusten’s mother, Dawn, had been bathing Skyla in a small, impractical tub, making the process stressful for Skyla and physically exhausting for her caregivers.
“We designed a spacious new zero-entry shower to allow Skyla’s wheelchair to move freely around,” Leigh recalled. “It also accommodates a reclining shower chair and a full bench, as well as provides enough room for her family members, as it takes at least two people to assist with Skyla’s bath.”
“And then, Chris called the family to let them know MasterCraft Builder Group would cover all the costs. That’s a moment I’ll never forget. Chris inspires me every day to stop and take time to help others, and I’m blessed to work with one of the most generous people I know.”
But MasterCraft Restoration had more surprises in store.
Team members Todd Kennedy and Gavin Napier, who led the on-site work, added a Wi-Fi-enabled speaker with soft lighting, knowing that Skyla was sensitive to harsh lights. Now, Skyla can relax to classical music or her favorite Disney songs while enjoying the soothing purple LED lights – her favorite color, of course. The calming environment has made bath time so relaxing for Skyla that she often falls asleep during her shower, leading to a smoother bedtime routine and improved sleep for the whole family.
Skyla’s mother, Kate, expressed her family’s gratitude.
“People often take the simple things for granted,” said Kate. “Skyla has taught us to appreciate everything we have. This incredible gift has improved our daily lives. Now, we look forward to bath time without worrying about the challenges of a small bath. Chris, Leigh, Gavin, and Todd were amazing to work with. They’re part of the family now.”
This unique and special project was made possible through the generosity of our big-hearted partners, including Moen, Daltile, Schluter, Florida Home Store, Element Electric LLC, Rolland Reash Plumbing, Turner’s Custom Showers, Renovations, Cirilo Painting Inc., and A1 Stone World Inc.
MasterCraft Disaster Restoration is here to help you recover quickly and efficiently after a storm or other property damage. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you through hurricane season and beyond.
