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William E. Weeks, Jr. is the youngest of eight siblings born to
William and Mary Weeks. Unbeknown to anyone at the time, William’s
life was already “purposed by design”. At the age of
five years old, he was diagnosed with Stevens Johnson Syndrome
(SJS), during this time, he was given a six month to a year prognosis
to live. Utter devastation to a family left to explain to a five
year old that life as he knew it would soon come to an end. Nevertheless
faith, hope and a burning desire to live bore William on eagles
wings from the little boy who according to medical science, would
not live to see his sixth birthday, to the phenomenal man that
he is today! As a blind individual, William is still proving to
the world that the so called, “giants” in our lives
can be defeated, the odds can be beaten and we can succeed if
success is our focus. Currently, William is the Disability, Mental
Health Manager for the Eastern Shore Early Childhood Development
Center (ESECDC) where he is responsible for the overall design,
implementation and evaluation of the disabilities and mental health
program for pre-school age children. He also provides training
and T.A. to various local, state and federally funded entities
in the areas of assistive technology, Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA), special education law and the Workforce Investment
Act (WIA) just to name a few. The devotion and allegiance portrayed
through his work has been recognized by national entities such
as the Law, Health Policy & Disability Center (LHPDC), U.S.
Dept of Labor, Division of Disability Workforce Programs, Employment
& Training Administration. (DDWP/ETA). Mr. Weeks also spends
time mentoring youth and young adults within his community; especially
those who are considered to be within the “at risk”
population. He and his wife, LaShundra have two sons, Joshua and
Noah Weeks.
CREDITS:
William appreciates
the many people who have encouraged and pushed him to the next
level. However, there are some who will always hold a special
place in his heart for their commitment and example of excellence.
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Family
Mr. Weeks’
siblings continue to inspire him to greatness. Their love, positive
direction and support have kept him focused through the years.
Mary
L. Weeks
William’s
mother has been the driving force and inspiration through all
of the hardships, struggles and pitfalls. Her strength, wisdom
and encouragement carried him through many storms without fail.
Even though his father died at the age of six, his mother continued
to fight and persevere, which in the long run, has paid off!
Edward
Connor
Mr. Connor is
a rehabilitation counselor who came to William’s rescue
as a junior in high school. As a frustrated young man, it appeared
that William had every door closed possible, until the day he
met Mr. Connor. Ed never discouraged or lost faith in the talents
and gifts he saw in William. He provided him with an outlet
of resources and services that leveled the playing for him;
which in return restored his self-esteem.
LaShundra,
Josh & Noah
William’s
family is the back bone and foundation of his success. His wife
is his biggest fan, critic and supporter all in one. LaShundra
continues to remind him that the sky is the limit for all of
his endeavors. As a young man, Mr. Weeks was told that he would
never have children of his own; however, his two small sons
are living proof that miracles can happen when you believe!
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