Medically Challenged Family From South Windsor Receives Merry Makeover

SOUTH WINDSOR, CT — A South Windsor family struggling with various medical issues recently received a complete Merry Makeover from a West Hartford-based interior design firm and some generous local businesses.

"Every year, my firm picks a deserving and inspirational local family in our community and gives them a room makeover," Camden Grace Interiors founder Jeanne Barber said. "This year, we received a nomination from the Hoffman family of Hoffman Auto Group, nominating one of their employees, Meri Robert."

Several years ago, Meri and Brent Robert's oldest son was diagnosed with autism. The couple banded together and actively learned about his diagnosis and how they could rise up to meet his needs. Three years later, their youngest son was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 5.

Barber said, "The care of two children with medical and special needs was daunting. Despite this, Meri and Brent remained committed to each other and committed to providing the best care to their children."

In March 2021, the family was struck again with tragedy when Brent, an ironworker, was on the job in Cambridge, Mass. when a portion of the building he was in collapsed. The collapse caused Brent to fall over 40 feet to the ground, causing significant, permanent injuries. He lost an arm and the majority of his vision, and sustained a debilitating brain injury. His best friend and colleague was killed.

Brent now lives at a group home for people with brain injuries in Bristol.

"Meri has dealt with the aftermath of this accident with grace and perseverance," Barber said. "We give huge thanks to all the businesses - many of them local - that stepped up and offered their services and expertise."

Among the donating businesses were:

• Lilejedahl Bros. of West Hartford moved furniture, built cabinetry, and painted the entire room;
• New England Cabinet Co. of New Britain built and installed a custom TV unit;
• Olson Backman of Portland donated window treatments, to be installed in January;
• Ikag Co. of Simsbury created a custom coffee table with storage for the kids' Legos;
• Michelle Wolff Photography of Simsbury and Localer Media of West Hartford donated their time to take memorable photos and videos.

"What was most amazing about this group effort was that there was no arm twisting or begging involved," Barber said. "As soon as they heard Meri's story, they immediately asked how they could help."

Despite all the setbacks, Meri Robert continues to persevere, Barber said.

"She is a rock for her boys and for Brent. She manages to juggle a very demanding job and the constant needs of both boys. She and her sons visit Brent frequently. This little family that has been through so much, remains strong. Throughout all of this, Meri continues to be positive, enthusiastic and kind. She is a true inspiration."