Michael's
Story
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 Pictures of Michael & Val in Action
Video of Michael on T-Swing
Video Michael on Hammock Swing
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"Michael
came to OT, Etc. in 2001 at the age of 3 years old with a
diagnosis of autism, including gross and fine motor deficits,
gravitational insecurity, and sensory difficulties. Val Plummer
of OT, Etc. came highly recommended by Michael's developmental
psychologist at Children's Hospital. Although she had barely
any openings in her therapy schedule, fortunately for Michael
and me, she agreed to take Michael as a new patient. As Michael's
mother, I have attended every weekly session since 2001 and
have witnessed my son go from a boy terrified of and resistant
to movement, textures, other basic skills like holding a crayon
or blowing bubbles, things that his typical peers do without
so much as a thought, to a boy asking for "more"
with a big smile on his face. |
Although Michael can still be
timid when it comes to many of the therapies, especially the
introduction of a new and unfamiliar therapy, he has learned
to trust Val and try whatever she has to offer. While some
tasks as simple as sitting and balancing on a "T"
stool while playing with Playdoh, or swinging on an inner
tube not more than a foot off the floor and learning to enjoy
falling off onto a padded mat below, or just laying on his
back on the mats or across a big ball while tossing a bean
bag over his head, initially elicited screaming, terror and
crying, these therapies soon became welcome challenges and
even fun and delightful for Michael. The smiles alone have
been worth every tantrum and every tear shed. Michael has
grown stronger and more confident in his gross and fine motor
skills and sensory issues all translating into a happier,
healthier boy, and we intend to continue with his occupational
therapy indefinitely."
Felicia Solito
Michael's mother
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