PJ's Passion for Giving Back

PJ was diagnosed with sensory processing disorder at 18 months old and were told by the early intervention evaluators that he may never speak in full sentences. Pediatricians recommended Easterseals to his family and at 2 years old, PJ started Speech and Occupational therapy. 

Starting Strong

PJ faced early challenges with mealtime routines, speech, and sleep. Through speech and occupational therapy, he spent hours in the therapy rooms blowing bubbles, exploring sensory rice and bean bins, and running obstacle courses while wearing weighted vests. These experiences helped build a strong foundation for future milestones. By age 3, PJ transitioned into a half-day preschool program in his school district, continuing therapy in a school setting, while Easterseals supported his family in advocating for the services he needed to reach his goals and prepare for school.

Giving Back

PJ is now a freshman at Benet Academy and is involved in choir and theater. He has performed in 14 musicals and plays, gaining confidence and developing a strong love for performing in front of an audience. PJ is also an Eagle Scout and chose Easterseals as the focus of his service project as a way to give back to the families, staff, and therapists who have supported him along the way.

For his project, PJ organized 600 craft kits to support our clients from January through June. Each kit is filled with engaging developmental activities for children and their siblings to use during therapy sessions or at home. To gather supplies, PJ created an Amazon Wishlist, which was fully purchased within 12 hours—and he went the extra mile by adding more items throughout the week, all generously donated by supporters.