Growing with Courage, Community, and Hope

Raizel was diagnosed with cerebral palsy with spastic diplegia, hypotonia, seizure disorder, dysarthria, and ADHD. Her family began looking for support and resources to help her thrive, and that is when they found Easterseals. At just five months old, she began therapy at Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley.

First Milestones

One of her earliest challenges was being unable to suck from a bottle. Around 6-8 months old, Raizel began Speech therapy which taught her how to drink from a straw and later on with hard work, she gradually learned to chew, swallow, and enjoy a full range of solid food. Now, she eats without restrictions and enjoys discovering new foods. 

Physical Therapy: Building Strength, Balance, and Independence

Raizel struggled with motor skills and doctors suggested that she might never walk independently. With dedication and support in Physical Therapy, she learned to not only walk independently but also run, swim, ride a scooter and bike! These amazing milestones helped Raizel's confidence soar, and she joined the Special Olympics Basketball and Track & Field team, earning a gold medal in the Regional Special Olympics and a silver medal in the Illinois State Special Olympics for running.

Occupational Therapy: Daily Living & Functional Skills

Occupational Therapy played a key role in helping Raizel build strength coordination, and body awareness. She learned to explore her environment and participate in everyday activities. As Raizel grew older, in therapy she learned to dress herself, tie her shoes, and brush her teeth. Occupational Therapy also supported her fine motor development, allowing her to write with control and type with both hands. Today, she takes pride in using these skills confidently in school and daily routines.

Speech Therapy: Finding Her Voice

Through Speech Therapy, Raizel learned to form and articulate words, respond to questions, tell stories, and express her needs. She improved her breath support and posture to help her speak clearer. She has used her ability to communicate from therapy in interviews, social interactions, and volunteer opportunities. 

Continuing Her Journey

Raizel's is cheerful, warm, and social, especially with her friends and classmates. Her dream has always been to work with kids and Easterseals welcomed her in the Lily Garden Child Development Center as a volunteer! She helps with young children, participates in classroom tasks, and supports teachers. Outside of her volunteer work, she participates in her school district's transition program, takes vocational classes at the College of DuPage, is job training at Cooperative Association for Special Education, and continues her Occupational and Speech therapy.