Foundation History:

The Why Knott Dream Big foundation was established by NFL coach Ty Knott and his wife, Brandi, in honor of their son Reece, who was diagnosed with Autism and Apraxia at the age 2 1/2 years old. Ty and Brandi know first hand the tremendous financial stress that this diagnosis can bring families who are trying their best to treat their children. It is Ty and Brandi's great desire to help families that do not have the resources that are needed to provide their children with services.

Since the diagnosis of their son Reece it has been a dream to start this foundation. They are excited about the first year, and looking forward to making a difference in the lives of many families.

About Reece:

As a newborn there were signs that something was not quite right. Reece had difficulty feeding and was only 8 lbs at 2 months of age. He had difficulty holding his head up and lacked the strength in his core and legs. At 2 ½ he was completely non verbal and struggled with many feeding and sensory dysfunctions, as well as low muscle tone and motor planning.

They were told by the doctors that “they shouldn't worry, he was a second child and sometimes they are a little slower developmentally". Ty and Brandi did not accept the Doctors’ explanation for their son's delays and sought help. At 2 ½ years of age Reece was given a mix of diagnosis, some being Autism others Apraxia, later being both. The one thing they were sure of was that treatment was necessary, and it was needed now.

Without the help of their insurance they continued to seek the best treatments available. At that time they were told he may never speak or attend a regular classroom. Reece began to receive extensive speech, occupational and physical therapies as well as home treatments over the next 4 years.

Reece has made tremendous progress since his diagnosis. Within the past year he began speaking in sentences, started Kindergarten in a mainstream class, and rode a bike with training wheels. Reece is a great reader and takes pride in his handwriting. He loves sports, watching and playing football, basketball and baseball. Reece is the little brother to Gavin and big brother to his sister Avarie, a role he takes great pride in.

His gains are so exciting and everyday holds new hope for the future, however there is still much to overcome. He continues to receive private speech therapy as well as speech, occupational and Physical therapies in school. Reece is a sweet boy, who touches everyone he meets in such a special way. Ty and Brandi are confident that much of his success is because of the wonderful services that Reece has received over the past years, the prayers and support of family and friends, and the incredible love and help he gets everyday from his brother and sister.

In starting this foundation it is the goal of the Knott family to raise awareness about Autism and Apraxia, and to help support families who struggle daily to provide services for their children.