Four-year-old Callie June is the life of the party and will talk to anyone who will listen. She adores the outdoors, pretending to be a doctor or chef in her make-believe kitchen, and singing Alicia Keys’ “Girl on Fire.” Callie lives at home with her parents, an older brother and a collection of furry companions including two dogs and three cats.
Callie’s journey began with a tough start at just nine days old, when she suffered a brain bleed resulting in hydrocephalus and epilepsy, requiring a shunt. Her parents were unsure of what to expect, but her mother Amanda, a speech pathologist, understood the complexity of Callie’s condition and knew there could be challenges ahead.
At four-months-old, Callie’s parent’s saw that she was missing milestones, prompting them to seek early intervention services at an infant sensory gym. When it was time for Callie to walk, her physical therapist recommended specialized services at Children's Specialized Hospital (CSH) in New Brunswick. The personalized care and equipment Callie received at CSH were transformative, allowing her newfound mobility and independence.
Callie then began receiving outpatient services at CSH and her progress in just four months has been remarkable. Her recent accomplishment—her first four independent steps using her canes—is a testament to her determination and the therapy she’s received. Callie’s confidence has soared, evident in her eagerness to go to therapy ever week.
CSH has not only impacted Callie, but her entire family by including them in her therapy sessions to aid her integration of therapy skills into daily life. Despite the challenges she faces, Callie June epitomizes resilience and the transformative power of personalized care. With unwavering support and dedicated therapy, Callie is on track to achieve her dreams.
You can help ensure that Callie, and thousands of children like her, get the care they need. To learn more about how your financial plans can impact the future of Children's Specialized Hospital and continue its legacy of care, please contact Elena Herskowitz at 1-201-618-3133 or 1-888-CHILDREN ext. 55462 or eherskowitz@childrens-specialized.org.