Fresh Air & Big Smiles—Emery’s New Outdoor Retreat!

Meet Emery, a bright and curious six-year-old with an adventurous spirit!

Emery was born with several rare genetic conditions that affect different aspects of her development. Despite her medical conditions, Emery is always on the go, full of personality, and ready to explore the world around her. Emery’s parents often found her opening the door and wandering outside, eager for adventure. But because of her photophobia, which makes it difficult for her to see in bright light, these outings weren’t always safe. They dreamed of giving Emery a secure and accessible outdoor space where she could enjoy the fresh air without risk. We knew this was outside our usual scope of work, but when Mark Galey of Louver Boss and Master Home Remodeler heard about Emery’s need, he made it his mission to help. He connected SOARD with the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) who, with the help of Keith Compton, Compton Sales rallied an amazing group of partners to donate their time, materials, and expertise. John Lea, DeckSouth stepped up as the lead contractor, and from there, the project took shape.
From the moment we arrived, Emery was right there in the middle of the action, running around with her communication device, excitedly saying, “Demo day! Demo day!” Her energy was contagious, and it reminded everyone why this work is so important—creating spaces where kids like Emery can thrive.
Originally, the plan was to add a louvered roof to the existing patio, providing shade and comfort for Emery’s outdoor therapy space. But once construction started, we uncovered a serious hazard—the home’s previous owners had poured concrete on top of the septic tank, creating a dangerous and illegal situation for the family. Leaving it as it was simply wasn’t an option.

So, like the roof, we pivoted. The concrete was dug up and removed to ensure the home was safe. The patio was repositioned, and in its place, the team built a brand-new deck with a louvered roof system, giving Emery a safe and beautiful outdoor retreat where she can play, explore, and just be a kid.

We also want to thank our long term sponsor Gas South who helps support our projects throughout the year helping cover key expenses. Their ongoing support of our mission allows us to change the lives of so many Sunshine kids like Emery and we are forever grateful for their partnership.

A heartfelt thank you to the incredible team who made this project possible:

🌿 33 North Design

🌿 Alpha Omega ConcreteEmery

🌿 Bin There Dump That

🌿 CAMO (NADRA Member)

🌿 Chick-fil-A

🌿 Comfort Research

🌿 Compton Sales, Inc. (NADRA Member)

🌿 Coweta-Fayette EMC Trust’s Operation Round-Up

🌿 DeckSouth (NADRA Member)

🌿 Fayette Septic

🌿 Great Southern Wood

🌿 Louver Boss

🌿 Master Home Remodelers (NADRA Member)

🌿 MoistureShield (NADRA Member)

🌿 NADRA

🌿 RDI Railing (NADRA Member)

🌿 Service Wise Electric

🌿 Timbertown (NADRA Member)

🌿 Copper Sky Design and Remodel

Thanks to this amazing community of supporters, Emery now has a safe outdoor therapy space where she can enjoy the fresh air comfortably for years to come. This project is a testament to the power of generosity, collaboration, and the belief that every child deserves a home that meets their unique needs.

From our hearts to yours, THANK YOU for making dreams come true for kids like Emery!

Video by iFrame Media—available on YouTube!

See a video clip from NADRA’s Southeast event on Feb 13, 2025 narrated by John Lea, DeckSouth Emory Build NADRA

Source: Sunshine on a Ranney Day