Ray thrives on the love and attention he receives from Rose-Mary Center

Ray Canda was born with numerous disabilities, including autism, movement disorders and developmental delays. He exhibited self-abusive behavior, is completely nonverbal and didn?t walk until he was 9 years old.

Now 28, he lived at home with his father and grandmother until 15 years ago, when his father became seriously ill.

?His developmental issues are so profound and his behavior issues are so severe that we had a terrible time finding anyone to deal with them,? said his aunt, Chris Zimmer. Ray also takes numerous medications.

?Nobody wanted him,? said Marie ?Teddy? Canda, his grandmother.

?Rose-Mary Center stepped up and accepted him in the respite program in January 2002,? said Chris. Soon after, her brother -- Ray?s father