About Beyond The Diagnosis Foundation, Inc.

The Journey Behind Beyond the Diagnosis Foundation, Inc.

Beyond the Diagnosis Foundation was born from a place of resilience, compassion, and lived experience.

In 2020, our founder, Shalyn Cofer, found herself navigating the challenges of single motherhood after her young son was diagnosed with Level 3 Autism—a journey filled with uncertainty, sleepless nights, therapy appointments, and heartbreak. At the time, she was also a college student, struggling to balance caregiving with coursework, often dropping out or failing classes just to care for her child.

But she never gave up.

Through prayer, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to her son’s future, Shalyn pushed forward. On May 9, 2025, she proudly walked the stage to receive her degree—an achievement that many told her wasn’t possible. That moment wasn’t just about a diploma—it was a declaration that single mothers of children with disabilities can rise, do deserve support, and will succeed with the right resources.

She created Beyond the Diagnosis Foundation, Inc. so that no mother walking a similar path would have to do it alone.

Founded in Lufkin, Texas, and backed by a passionate board of mothers, advocates, and community leaders, our organization exists to provide what Shalyn once needed most—emotional support, educational assistance, respite care, and hope.

From a living room idea to a registered nonprofit backed by community partners, chamber recognition, and growing outreach events - our story has just begun. And we are building a legacy of impact, one family at a time.