My Personal Story
Mary Van Orman is a cancer survivor, survivor of domestic violence, and - most importantly - the mother of a child battling type 1 diabetes.
Licensed as an attorney in 1993, Mary was immediately lead to dedicate her career to the betterment of children’s lives. Mary became a board-certified family law specialist by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in 1998. She has 30 years’ experience representing individuals in litigation related to Texas family law matters such as divorce and child custody matters. Much like her goals and mission with SAFE, Mary’s focus has always been the best interest of the children involved.
Mary’s journey took an unexpected turn when her son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the young age of 13. Suddenly, Mary found herself fighting a new battle - this time on behalf of her own child. She gave up her law practice in Texas and made California her new home in hopes of making a better life for her son. Despite facing countless obstacles, she has never given up. She fought tirelessly to ensure he received the education and support he needed, even when met with resistance and discrimination from schools and educators.
Through her struggles, Mary realized that many families were like hers, struggling to navigate the complicated and often hostile school systems that often fail to accommodate the needs of disabled students. Determined to make a difference, Mary started her own business, “Special Advocates For Education (SAFE)”, to help families navigate the educational system and fight for their rights; specializing in helping parents and students navigate the complex regulations surrounding special education and disability rights.
Mary has helped countless families navigate the educational system and fight for the rights of their disabled children. She will work tirelessly to ensure that every student has access to a quality education.
Despite all of the challenges she has faced, Mary has never given up on her son or her mission to help others. Her unwavering determination and fierce love for her son have been an inspiration to all those around her. Through SAFE, Mary will continue to help others and make the world a better, more inclusive, place for all children.
DISCLAIMER: Van Orman is not currently licensed to practice law in any jurisdiction and cannot provide legal advice or guidance, or otherwise engage in the practice of law. If necessary in any jurisdiction, we retain lawyers when legally required.