Our Back Story
Our little girl Shea was diagnosed with GATAD2B – associated neurodevelopmental disorder on March 23rd 2022, a day we will never forget. After months of seeking help from medical professionals, we finally got answers to our concerns when Shea turned 22 months old. Shea was about the 240th person diagnosed with GAND in the world.
Very little is known about her condition especially here in the UK, with only one specialist in the world based in Los Angeles, USA.
As parents we quickly became the experts on our daughter’s condition and joined the small online network of parents through Helping Hands For GAND, a charity based in America.
Shea was a happy but a very sicky baby, constant reflux and GERD, noisy breathing, choking on her milk, daily constipation along with missing all of her milestones. Shea had/has hypotonia (low muscle tone), she was also a “floppy baby”,and it took a lot of effort for Shea to just open her hands. After months of being desperate parents with lots of questions we eventually had the right team in place that diagnosed Shea through Whole Genome Sequencing.
Intervention
We built up Shea’s early intervention team of Physiotherapists, Occupational therapists, SALT team along with developmental classes and animal therapy.
With the support of this dedicated team, Shea began to progress in her own way, she gained new abilities and confidence as she explored the world around her. Each small achievement was celebrated, and we saw firsthand the profound impact that consistent, compassionate intervention could have. These experiences shaped not only Shea’s journey but also inspired our vision for what support could look like for other SEND families.
Raising a child with SEND
Through our experience of raising a child with SEND, we came to understand how often choices can feel limited. This inspired us to establish CARNEY CARR THERAPY FARM—a place where SEND families, children, and adults can experience an inclusive and supportive environment tailored to their own unique learning journey.
From these roots, our farm evolved. It became more than a sanctuary for animals and nature—it grew into a vibrant hub for learning, healing, and shared experience. We believe that every small victory, no matter how modest, should be celebrated, and that every individual deserves a place where their abilities are championed and their needs understood.
Enhances skills and improves wellbeing
Is diverse and adaptable
Improves social interaction
Connects to Nature and Outdoors