Cheryl KantakAfter the birth of their second child, Deb, who also has disabilities, Cheryl Kantak left her career as an insurance underwriter to devote herself to their care. She has spent the last fifty years advocating for them as well as others with disabilitis. Cheryl has educated herself in the systems that provide supports, for better or worse, for persons with disabilities. She has served on the board of directors of three central New York not-for-profit agencies serving people with disabilities, as well as on numerous committees. In 1995, Cheryl was the recipient of the New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council's Volunteer of the Year award.

Cheryl and Bob, her husband of 55 years, live in central New York, close to both of their daughters. She loves to read and write and also enjoys word games and puzzles. Together, they enjoy spending time in the summer at their cottage in the Finger Lakes. Read More Read Less