Family Spotlight

Variety the Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City is dedicated to making differences in the lives of kids and their families. Today’s Variety Family Spotlight shines on Lucy and her mom, Jill Cook. Here is a heartwarming update on Lucy’s progress:

Since Lucy is the youngest of four children I really wasn't concerned about the fact that she wasn't walking - really wasn't even pulling up to stand on her own - until she reached eighteen months. That's when I contacted Infant Toddler Services of Johnson County. After her initial evaluation we were assigned one of their wonderful physical therapists who began working with us on a regular basis immediately. Lucy's therapist soon concluded that orthotics were necessary to correct and help strengthen the lack of muscle tone in her little legs. Unfortunately the type of orthotics Lucy requires are very costly, and though we have insurance we were responsible to pay for them in full. Lucy is a very strong-willed child, and I truly believed that her refusal to even try to walk was a choice. She found a way to get around on her knees quite well, and she has three big brothers to help her reach anything she might want. Imagine my shock and amazement when Lucy stood up and walked around our coffee table the very first day she wore her orthotics! Her very first steps on the very first day of wearing them!! It was as if she had been wanting to stand up and walk all this time but simply couldn't. I don't think I stopped smiling the rest of that day. I am so proud of the progress she continues to make, and I finally have hope that she might be walking close to her second birthday! I am overwhelmed with gratitude for Variety KC's generous gift that will empower my daughter to walk. Sincerely, Jill Cook (Proud mother of an almost-walker)

Variety is so proud of Lucy and the progress she has made. With the help of warm hearted volunteers and generous donors like yourself, we will continue to make miracles happen. Click here
for information on how to help Variety children and their families.