Hi! I’m Laura, I am the proud mother of Marshall. Marshall faced many medical conditions as an infant, such as low birth weight, surgery to correct a complex cyanotic congenital heart defect that was complicated by a subdural hemorrhage, a genetic condition, cerebral palsy, seizures, a diaphragmatic hernia, and chronic lung disease. Through every challenge that Marshall faced, he continued to persevere and thrive despite the predictions of his physicians. First and foremost, Marshall was a son and a brother and that is exactly how his siblings treated him. Marshall was diagnosed with hearing loss at 12 months of age and cortical visual impairment (CVI) at 18 months of age.
It was difficult to find the resources that Marshall needed to help with his development. Everything changed when I met Dr. Christine Roman-Lantzy at a conference centered on Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC). She answered so many questions I had and introduced me to Pediatric VIEW, where I finally began to understand the challenges that Marshall faced as a child with CVI.
Through sessions with Dr. Roman-Lantzy, I have learned that CVI requires very specific interventions. We will always have a debt of gratitude to Dr. Roman and the Pediatric View program at The Children’s Home. Through her interactions with Marshall and the courses that she has taught, we have learned to begin to make accommodations for Marshall that enable him to actively participate in his world in ways that were previously not possible.
We have chosen to homeschool Marshall this year, a decision that has enabled him to receive more intensive physical therapy and to make the most of everyday moments and experiences.
The Children’s home of Pittsburgh and Pediatric VIEW continue to provide us with hope for Marshall through the personalized interventions he receives there.
You can make a difference in the lives of children like Marshall by donating today. Your gift will enrich the lives of children and families served through our programs. Will you help by making a gift to The Children’s Home today?