“For our family, the Special Needs Ambassador Program (SNAP) at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center is that boundless treasure of support, caring and expertise.”
Finding a treasure is usually a one-time remarkable event. Finding a treasure that keeps on giving is so exceptional, it needs to be recognized. For our family, the Special Needs Ambassador Program (SNAP) at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center is that boundless treasure of support, caring and expertise.
From our first encounter with Phlebotomy in 2019 to our most recent experience this year in the Emergency Department, SNAP has provided extraordinary support for our son Robert who has autism and developmental disabilities.
Through his many positive experiences, Robert associates the hospital with warmth and kindness. As parents of a child with limited communication, having healthcare professionals who listen and collaborate with us to best help Robert is crucial.
No one understands this better than our SNAP contact, Bonnie Sacks, RN, BSN, MAS, Clinical Director of Pediatrics and Child Life Manager at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, who coordinates the program. Responsive, compassionate and professional, Bonnie is our guiding light each time we navigate a hospital visit for Robert. Having Bonnie and SNAP as part of Robert’s team has made an immeasurable difference in our lives. They are a treasure for which we are most grateful.
-Elizabeth Vigna
The Special Needs Ambassador Program was created to raise awareness about development disorders and to assist individuals with special needs and their families in navigating their hospital experience – whether during an inpatient stay or an outpatient procedure. The goal of the program is to support the patient and family through listening and advocacy.
More information about the SNAP program at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.