Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. VerTongie Kendrix-Bailey.
Hi Dr. VerTongie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story is a simple one — yet it changed my life forever.
When my son Hezekiah was diagnosed with autism at just four years old, I made a promise to myself and to him: we would get through this together. Watching him struggle to communicate, cry without being able to express why, or become overwhelmed was incredibly painful. I knew I had to find help for my child — but for me, the support I needed felt distant and difficult to access.
So, I educated myself. I enrolled in college courses on children with special needs and autism so I could better understand my son and be his strongest advocate. Through learning and lived experience, I discovered that children with autism experience the world in their own unique ways — calm and focused one moment, overwhelmed or overstimulated the next. These differences do not define them; they simply call for compassion, patience, and the right support.
Through this journey, Hezekiah Kidz, Inc. was born — a foundation created to educate, empower, and uplift children, families, and the community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My son, once diagnosed as nonverbal and a runner at age four, is now an advocate himself and the author of three books. His resilience is a testimony that progress, growth, and miracles truly happen when children have the support and community they need.
Through Hezekiah Kidz, Inc., I sponsor and host multiple resource fairs and community events to ensure families in Detroit have access to essential supports.
I would be honored to share my story, connect with families, and continue uplifting the Autism and Special Needs community wherever I am called.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I want the children living with Autism and other disabilities that there is ability if they have the right resources and educate them on the step and skill set that they need.
I also feel that we must educate the community on how to handle the children and young adults need services. Once we educate the community, we can empower them to be successful and play a major role in society.Dr. VerTongie Kendrix-Bailey, a proud Detroit advocate and mother of a son living with Autism, Hezekiah Kidz, Inc. works to empower children with Autism and other disabilities through resources, community outreach, and events designed to build life skills and confidence. Dr. Kendrix-Bailey and her team proudly serve Detroit families year-round through education, advocacy, and accessible support services.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
I have learned that Children with special Need can Learn they just have a different way of learning. and there is ablities in the disabilities.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Dr. VerTongie
- Facebook: Hezekiah Kidz, Inc.
- LinkedIn: VerTongie Kendrix-Bailey
