OUR STORY
The name Ashanse was derived from a combination of Dr. Sheryl Walters Malcolm’s daughters, her husband and herself (ASHley, BriANna, Sheryl, Everton), and here is the story about how the company came into being.
Dr. Sheryl Walters Malcolm was a business professor who, at the age of 43, was diagnosed with nemaline myopathy, a rare neurological condition that weakens proximal, respiratory, neck, and facial muscles. Her condition worsened, and she spent a significant amount of time in hospitals, almost losing her life on more than one occasion.
Despite several setbacks, Sheryl’s condition eventually stabilized, and she returned home. However, she was unable to walk or rise from a seated position and required assistance with daily activities. Due to her condition, she lost her job as a professor, and her husband became her full-time caregiver.
During this time, Sheryl’s younger daughter Ashley, 14 years old at the time, developed an interest in sewing and started making pillow covers, which she sold to family and friends. Recognizing this as an opportunity, Sheryl developed a business plan, and Ashanse was founded.
Now wheelchair bound, Sheryl experienced the challenges of adapting to a way of living, different from that she was accustomed to. Additionally, she realized that the resources available to assist disabled individuals live a normal life were limited and made a commitment to support organizations that help disabled individuals.
Ashanse’s vision is to create bold, handcrafted and unique products for our customers. One critical component of our overall mission is the incorporation of a social component to make a difference in disabled individuals’ lives. Thus, the company donates 10% of sales to charitable organizations that support disabled individuals. We strongly believe in the adage that to whom much is given, much is required and are committed to using this platform to help those in need.