Ava is learning that taking charge of her daily routine is an important step toward taking charge of her life.
For Ava, everyday activities like eating and dressing have always meant relying on her family for help. But her mom, Sandy, knew that with the right support, Ava could do more for herself.
Occupational therapy became the key to building those life skills—and a grant from Fello’s Family Fund made it possible. After just nine sessions, Ava is not only more comfortable taking care of herself, but also stronger and more confident.
Ava’s story shows what can happen when children have access to supports that meet them where they are. Sometimes, all it takes is an opportunity.
Finding a Way
Ava is an eight-year-old full of joy and excitement about everything in her world. She enjoys playing with her toys and watching television, but what she loves most is spending time with her little brother, who is her favorite person in the world.
Ava’s family is a constant source of love and support. She faces challenges with walking and talking, and her family is always there for her. But they also recognize Ava’s potential to become more independent, and they do everything they can to encourage her growth.
Throughout her life, Ava has received occupational therapy off and on, and it has made a real difference. But consistent access was always a question. That changed when Sandy learned about the Family Fund from Ava’s school. For the first time in a while, Sandy saw a real opportunity for Ava to receive the therapy she needed and reach new milestones.
Learning New Skills
Sandy found an occupational therapist who was the perfect fit for Ava. The therapist visited their home and built a strong rapport with Ava in a comfortable environment.
Ava practiced feeding herself, dressing herself, and taking the lead in other activities important to her independence. The focus was on building her muscle strength and technique while ensuring Ava felt good about the challenge.
“Ava greatly enjoys the therapy, and it’s actually helping,” said Sandy. “Every session, she’s learning more, and the therapist was great.”
Ava’s progress impressed her entire family. They had always believed in her, but they were amazed at how quickly she advanced. Tasks that were once difficult became easier, and she even began doing some of them without Sandy asking.
Having the sessions at home was also a tremendous support for Sandy. She could observe the therapist and reinforce what Ava learned, practicing together every night.
Sandy is careful not to pressure Ava, but she is confident that Ava will continue building the strength and mobility she needs to live life on her own terms.
Independence Depends on Access
Working with an occupational therapist who understood her was exactly what Ava needed to gain more control over her daily life. She is embracing new experiences, building confidence, and developing the skills she needs to live more independently.
Her whole family has noticed the change, and there’s optimism that one day, Ava will enjoy the independence she deserves. Sandy credits much of Ava’s remarkable progress to the generosity of those who support the Family Fund.
“It’s helped my daughter achieve so much,” said Sandy. “It’s going to help her achieve functional independence for the rest of her life.”
Thanks to the Family Fund, children like Ava can access the therapies, supports, and resources they need to live the lives they choose. For many families, it’s a lifeline, providing access to services that would otherwise be out of reach.
“It’s so hard to access care, especially good care. The waitlists are so long. Having extra funds to do such things makes a world of difference for children,” said Sandy.
A Life-Changing Opportunity for Families
The Family Fund is funded entirely by donors. Every dollar comes from supporters who believe that children with disabilities deserve the chance to learn and grow.
Inspired by Ava’s story? Consider making a gift to the Family Fund so that more children, like Ava, can access the resources they need.