Gina Coufal can still remember that sweet new baby scent, the velvety soft skin, and the sound of each new coo coming from Josh, her healthy baby boy. She was happily adjusting to life as a young woman, wife, student and a first-time mom. And then Josh’s health challenges began.
When he was a few months old, Gina observed some strange episodes of startling followed by a rash, which the pediatrician assured her was normal. On Gina's birthday, Josh had his 6-month check-up, which included watching her baby get those dreaded shots. Within an hour of getting home, he had a seizure. Twenty-nine hours later, he had another seizure that resulted in a hospital visit, where he had yet another seizure. This is every mom's worst nightmare.
Thus began a four-year journey of searching for answers for the continued seizures, including infantile spasms (a rare and challenging condition with a high likelihood of brain damage), profound developmental delays, mobility and eating issues, and non-verbal communication. Throughout it all, Gina’s determination never wavered. Multiple rounds of tests, injections, medications and much more culminated in a week-long visit to the Mayo Clinic, which Gina took as a sign that they would finally get answers. Unfortunately, they walked away defeated. At this point came acceptance and a mindset of doing what you need to do and trusting your instincts.
During those early years of Josh’s health journey, Gina welcomed two more children, Nicholas (Nick) and Molly, both neurotypical. Gina constantly worried about all her kids and admits to being a helicopter mom. One blessing is that the kids all took care of each other. Unfortunately, she didn’t have much of a support system which led to the breakdown of friendships and, ultimately, her marriage.
Championing the children's needs, the family moved to Broomfield so all three children could attend school together at Kohl Elementary, which had an inclusive special needs program. During the kids’ younger years, Gina created a great support system for all her kids through activities, sports and school, which grew as the kids got older. At the same time, Gina graduated from college with a degree in American Sign Language Interpreting.
During their transition to Broomfield, Gina naturally connected to a handful of families she met through church, all wanting a better life for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their passion to advocate for their children’s future built the foundation, and in 1998 they launched FRIENDS of Broomfield. Starting with a focus on recreation and social opportunities, the group expanded its scope and grew rapidly over the years. The organization flourished with Gina’s determination and became a recognized 501c3 charitable organization in 2002.
Always in the back of her mind was what kind of support Josh would have when he “aged out” of traditional programs, typically at age 18 or 21. Gina didn’t want a gap in what Josh and others were learning—she wanted them to continue to build on those skills. Thus began a day program at FRIENDS. Through the day program, it is believed that when adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are given the opportunity and support to participate and contribute to the community, all of our lives are enriched. Gina’s non-profit baby, FRIENDS of Broomfield, now supports over 230 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities like Josh.
Gina drew her inspiration from her grandma, a remarkable woman who balanced business with community service. Her grandma's influence instilled in Gina the importance of balancing work and family responsibilities, inspiring her to be a strong role model for her own children. She wanted her daughter to see that you don’t have to pick being a mom or having a career—you can have both.
Today, Gina’s life is more fulfilling than ever! She is married to Ryun, a retired police officer who wholeheartedly embraced Gina’s children. Although Ryun never had kids of his own, his niece has Down Syndrome equipping him to be a father figure in Josh’s life. Gina simply beams when talking about her grandchildren, who include Madison (7), Luke (6), Jack (5), Olivia (4) and Miles (1). The family has a strong bond, and they spend time together often. Nick is a project manager, and Molly is a special education teacher. They both serve on the young professionals advisory board for FRIENDS and volunteer at all the fundraisers. Meanwhile, Josh happily lives at home, requiring care 24/7. Additionally, Gina and Ryun have opened their hearts and home to Marvin, a best pal to Josh and participant at FRIENDS of Broomfield.
Gina is a true advocate for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. From her role as a teacher’s aide in a high school special education class to her current role as CEO and Founder of FRIENDS of Broomfield, Gina’s journey has been remarkable. Gina wears many titles being a wife, grandma, professional and believer, but her favorite title is mama bear.
"Gina simply beams when talking about her grandchildren."
“My mom is my everything: my rock, my friend, my shoulder to cry on, my voice of reason. She inspires me with her incredible passion to help others. Her devotion to her family are the same qualities that drive her successful non-profit.”