Life Before (and After) Cole

The love of travel for both my husband and I started long before we ever met. Mine started when my extended family spread across the U.S. came together each year to vacation in a new destination. While my husband’s family returned to the same destination annually, Siesta Key, FL. While our travel experiences differed in our traditions, both our experiences created lifelong memories.

After we got married, we enjoyed our time as newlyweds, finding our new routines, traveling, going out with friends, and only being responsible for ourselves. Like many couples, we dreamed of having kids and growing our family. We now lovingly refer to that time as “BC” or Before Cole.

When Cole, our first son, was born, everything changed. Soon after his birth, Cole was diagnosed with CHARGE Syndrome, a rare and medically complex syndrome. Those first few years were a whirlwind of medical equipment, specialists, surgeries, and therapy appointments.

Travel was the furthest thing from our minds. We were just trying to survive.

When Cole almost a year, we decided to take our first trip with him to visit Raymond’s parents… in Siesta Key, of course. Preparing for that trip was no small task. We shipped medical supplies ahead of time, arranged for a medical company to set up medical equipment before we arrived, and packed feeding tube supplies, trach equipment, and everything else we could possibly think of. It was overwhelming but it was also the beginning of Cole’s love of travel.

Finding Our New Normal

Learning to navigate daily medical care, therapy schedules, doctor appointments, surgeries, and the challenges of traditional schooling (which eventually led me to homeschool Cole) wasn’t easy. But through it all, we found joy and gratitude in the small victories and the big adventures.

Years later, we welcomed our second son, Parker into our family. Healthy and always on the move, he’s our gentle soul who is kind, curious, and always up for an adventure.

Traveling – Separately, Differently, And Together

As a family, we’ve learned that travel doesn’t have to look the same for everyone.

In the early years when Cole was medically fragile, we often returned to Siesta Key because it was familiar, close to a hospital, a short direct flight for us, and we had the support of Cole’s grandparents who have a home there. As Cole became more stable, my husband and I began taking turns traveling. I took girl’s trips and Raymond took golf trips.

Travel for us has required flexibility, adaptability, and creativity. At times, this means packing medical equipment and researching the accessibility of a destination. At other times, it means planning adult-only getaways to recharge.

Now, we’re passionate about sharing our experiences. Whether you’re planning a big vacation or just looking for inspiration to take that first step, we are here to do the planning so you can travel your way!

Warmly,

Shawn (OT/L; CATP), Raymond, Cole, & Parker

Shawn

I’m an occupational therapist and a Certified Autism Travel Professional (CATP) with a deep love for travel and helping others plan vacations their way. Through our journeys, I combine my professional background with my personal experience to make travel accessible, meaningful, and fun for everyone.

Favorite Destinations: Florida’s Gulf Coast, Alaska, Italy

Bucket List: African Safari, Australia, Croatia

Raymond

Raymond is a golf enthusiast and President of Herrick Electric, a family owned industrial electrical company. While he is partial to golf and Siesta Key, he likes exploring new destinations, boating, watching all sports (especially golf), and is our “grill master.”

Favorite Destinations: Sarasota, FL; London, England; Scottsdale, AZ

Bucket List: Scotland (the Old Course at St. Andrews), Pinehurst, NC (“Home of American Golf”), and Ireland—for, you guessed it, more golf!

Cole

Cole loves spending time with family, friends, and our dogs, Snoopy & Peanut. He’s a big fan of Super Mario, crazy socks, plush animals, Harry Potter, books, and all things tech. Despite Cole’s medical challenges, low vision (blind), hearing challenges (deaf), and balance challenges, he’s always finding fun wherever we go!

Favorite Destinations: Gulf Shores, AL; Grand Canyon; Washington, DC

Bucket List: Hawaii, Canada, Mexico

Parker

Parker enjoys a balance of adventure and downtime. He has an impressive knowledge of cars and a true passion for dirt bikes. He loves the outdoors and enjoys playing a wide range of sports. Thanks to his energy and curiosity, our family’s travels are always filled with excitement, exploration, and unforgettable discoveries.

Favorite Destinations: Maggie Valley, NC; Glacier National Park; Williams, AZ

Bucket List: Singapore Grand Prix; Berlin, Germany; London, England

Snoopy

Snoopy is our golden retriever and Cole’s service dog. With his low-key personality, he provides a constant sense of calm. But don’t let that gentle demeanor fool you. He’s got a bit of mischief tucked away. I always crack up when people who see him “working” can’t imagine him running wild, while those who see him when he’s “off duty” often give a knowing nod and a look of mistrust, as if to say, “Sure… he’s really a service dog (wink, wink).”

Favorite Destinations: Anywhere he can swim.

Peanut

Peanut is our golden retriever and Parker’s ever-present shadow. Always ready for cuddles, he frequently bounds on top of others with absolutely no regard for personal space. Peanut has mastered the art of letting himself and Snoopy inside by jumping up and pushing down the back door lever handle. He also provides comic relief with his persistent “little brother” routine, gently mouthing Snoopy during nap time until Snoopy finally gives in and plays.

Favorite Destinations: Anywhere with his family.

At Herrick Road Maps, we share our lived experiences and professional expertise to design vacations that feel effortless, inclusive, and truly memorable. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a dream vacation, our promise is to guide you every step of the way so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable experience that exceeds your expectations.