The Story behind the Chocolate

To know Shane is to love him! We would be selfish to keep his contagious smile and energy to ourselves!
Shane was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 4, epilepsy at the age of 10, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at the age of 15. His life has always been filled with multiple therapies. Years of OT, PT, Speech, and ABA, a repeat of pre-K, and special needs-based classes to end with a High School Certificate. He is currently in his 3rd year of transition programming to learn life and work skills.
I'm a realist. I've never pretended to think Shane will be capable of living on his own. As a parent, you see your kids, right? You love them unconditionally, but you see and know what they're capable of. Shane will never learn to read or write; he cannot cook, clean, or mind his own safety and security. He does not care for his own hygienic needs and without our help could not survive. This is his and our reality.
There are parts of this life we can choose and parts we cannot. What we always have control over is how we deal with this life and every part of it.
As Shane turned 18, we stood in a courtroom to gain full guardianship and custody of our own son, to ask if we would be allowed to continue to care for him in his adult life as we had for the first 18 years. As the guardianship was granted, we took his right to vote, his right to marry, drive, sign for himself, and make any decisions alone. All things he is not mentally capable of but still cuts to the core to take from someone you love. It's a harsh annual reminder as the state does a home visit and questionnaire filled with the things he cannot do; to be sure we are providing a safe and healthy home for him. This is just one of the choices we make, the ones he cannot, and the ones we have made for him.
As he turned 21 in September, another milestone absent of typical things, we felt the looming end of his transition programming approaching.
There are a few options for Shane into the next year into adulthood. He has been on a waiting list for an adult day habilitation program for several years and they may finally have a spot for him in 2026. We were recently informed he can do another year at the high school program, what would be his 7th year in the same setting, or we can simply keep him at home. *We would never do that.
This is where, as his parents, we make another decision... What is enough for him? What do we want for him? What's next?
NONE of it is good enough. We want more for him. Isolation to special needs peers isn't enough for him or anyone. Why does he have to be in a closed setting hanging clothes or stocking shelves? Why is separation and alone always the option for Shane? No more separation, no more small things, and no more boundaries.
We are going BIG, we will create what's best for him with your help and here's how.
We are opening a Gourmet Chocolate Boutique!
Especially Sweet - A Gourmet Chocolate Boutique
"Where special treats are served by exceptional people"
A local brick-and-mortar startup here in Keller, TX. A place where Shane can work and participate within his capabilities and within the community. A place where you can get to know him and love his contagious energy and spirit and get a sweet treat at the same time! A place that gives him purpose for his future.
The even bigger dream is to eventually add Shane's special needs friends to our staff, a goal I have already spoken with his transition teacher about and know it is 100% a possibility.
So, what IF we create a place in our own community where you can support, get to know, and love our Shane and his special needs community?
We're saying a big scary YES and believe you'll show up in a BIG way.
We've found a building we love, we've leased it and have a business plan. WE are set to open in January of 2026. 
Having prayed over this for at least 10 years, I am certain this is the next step for our family. I know our God is big and all things are indeed possible.
Another level to this dream...
What IF...
We could start this BIG giant crazy dream without debt?
What IF...
Shane's community showed up before there was even chocolate to buy?
What if...
Our community and even strangers saw this dream and believed with me that it can be a reality?
So here goes...
I'm asking as a mother, as Shane's caregiver, and as a dreamer...
Will you support us and Shane?
The profit from Todays Chocolate purchases go towards costs of our opening!
Give and shop if you can and please share our story either way.
The funds raised through go fund me will go to the following:
Deposit and 1st month's business lease
Store fixtures and furniture
Signage and decor
Inventory *US sourced
Business start-up fees and costs
Insurance
Advertisement and Marketing
Licensing and permitting fees
and whatever start-up needs we come across
As you can imagine, these costs will add up to 30k plus on the low end. Starting a small business is no small feat. We appreciate you and every single person who gives and shares! Let's dream together and stand together saying we can do more for Shane and his community.
We also have spots available for fixture sponsors for families or businesses. We have several large cost fixtures that we need and would love to partner with you. When you sponsor a fixture, you will be recognized in the boutique forever as a supporter. Contact me for details!