Brennan’s Story: Celebrating Small Wins, Every Day
When Brennan was born, his mother Jasmine was preparing to embrace motherhood for the first time. Instead, she was confronted with an unexpected and overwhelming medical reality. Brennan was diagnosed at birth with Lowe Syndrome, a rare condition that primarily affects boys, and impacts the eyes, brain, and kidneys. From the very beginning, his life involved urgent medical intervention – surgeries to remove cloudy lenses from his eyes, procedures to manage severe teething issues, and the commencement of lifelong kidney medication.
Jasmine’s early experience of motherhood was shaped by hospital corridors, unfamiliar medical terminology, and decisions of profound consequence. Alongside fear and uncertainty came an unwavering determination to do everything possible to give Brennan the best start in life.
Over the past 19 years, Brennan’s journey has been marked by surgeries, meltdowns, and countless medical appointments. His life is carefully structured around regular check-ups, evolving medication requirements, and ongoing scans to monitor calcium cysts in his kidneys. The unpredictable nature of his condition remains one of the family’s greatest challenges, demanding constant resilience and adaptability.
Education has played a meaningful role in Brennan’s development. He graduated from Rainbow Centre Special Needs School in 2024, where the curriculum focused on practical life skills, communication, numeracy, and social and emotional learning. Progress was measured not through traditional academic standards, but through milestones that support independence. One such milestone was Brennan being given the role of “Laundry Director,” a responsibility that reflected his growing confidence, capability, and personal development.
Socially, Jasmine acknowledges that discussions about Brennan’s schooling can sometimes feel uncomfortable, particularly when explaining his educational pathway to others. However, she approaches these conversations with honesty and optimism, believing that openness fosters understanding and helps challenge misconceptions.
Outside of school and home, Brennan finds joy in connecting with his community. He enjoys leading songs, taking part in community activities, and sharing his hope for more inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued. For Jasmine, these moments serve as powerful reminders to appreciate the small things by focusing on Brennan’s progress, gratitude, and the everyday wins that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Support networks and community organisations have been central to the family’s journey. Advocacy initiatives and shared platforms have raised awareness of rare disorders while providing connection and reassurance. Through these communities, Jasmine and her family have found comfort and strength in knowing they are not alone.
At the heart of Jasmine’s message is a gentle but powerful call for acceptance and hope. She encourages parents not to feel embarrassed, to remain optimistic, and to celebrate even the smallest victories. She envisions a future where increased awareness leads to genuine inclusion where children like Brennan are treated with dignity, understanding, and equality.
Brennan’s story is not defined by his diagnosis, but by the love, perseverance, and advocacy that surround him. It is a reminder that true strength is often found in ordinary moments – in patience, persistence, and a family’s unwavering commitment to helping a child live fully, on his own terms.
