Physical Disabilities
CFI Family Featured in Magazine
Jared and Kathleen, along with their daughters Margot and Grace are featured in this July’s Greet Western Springs magazine.
Kathleen recently published a children’s book, “Stinky Mama,” promoting disability awareness and inclusion. Their favorite part of living in Western Springs is the friendly, supportive community, especially for Margot, who has cerebral palsy.
Read all about the Marcell Family’s journey in the July issue of Greet Western Springs Magazine!
Hillgrove Avenue Magazine Article
Feature Article About Working Together Chicago
Nora Dudley begins this article featuring WTC with the Herbst’s story:
In 1987, Justin Herbst was born ten weeks premature, and suffered a severe stroke. This led to a diagnosis of cerebral palsy–spastic quadriplegia, a permanent neuromuscular disorder and the most severe form of CP, limiting the ability to move the limbs, torso and face. Despite his diagnosis, Herbst’s mom Patti believed her son could become independent. A decade later and frustrated by a lack of improvement in the traditional medical therapy model, Herbst’s parents enrolled him in a Canadian program focused on conductive education…
Award-Winning Program Empowers Mothers of Children with Disabilities
Friend of the Center and Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Helen Bourke-Taylor, was recently interviewed on a podcast called “Too Peas in a Podcast” hosted by Mandy Hose and Kate Jones. In it, Helen mentions the Center for Independence and our Executive Director, Patti Herbst! Helen, with the help of Patti and the Center, developed a program called Healthy Mothers Healthy Families, which is the longest-running, most effective program for mothers of children with disabilities in the world.
The award-winning program offers free workshops, a free self-paced website and training for pediatric OTs to better support moms of children with disabilities. Listen to the interview.
“Too Peas in a Podcast” is designed for peas (mothers of children with additional needs) and peafessionals (anyone else who plays a key role in the support systems for children with disabilities, parents and families), the podcast snaps the isolation barriers experienced by peas. The podcast addresses mothers being seen, looking after themselves and a change in practice. Learn more about Healthy Mothers Healthy Families.
Working Together Chicago featured on IAMCP’s blog
Aileen Provan, from the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners posted an article on the IAMCP blog, May 5. The post features Working Together Chicago, a CFI program, which is a great opportunity for employees looking to be come involved in the IAMCP Diversity and Inclusion program.
Read her article titled: “The Hidden Talent Pool; A D&I story that will give you fresh ideas on how to attract new talent”
What’s CFI Been Up To?
When the COVID-19 coronavirus health crisis closed the doors of Center for Independence our dedicated physical and occupational therapists, conductive education teachers and social worker opened their laptops, charged their smartphones and sprang into action! Our professional staff were ready to provide innovative, telehealth therapy services using social media outlets and video chat platforms!
Our hardworking staff immediately began (and continues!) to provide telehealth therapy services to more than 100 children and young adults with physical disabilities while our building is closed. To support the families during this pandemic, our therapy staff also developed home exercise programs and organized equipment lending for all families. We will continue providing telehealth therapy and social work services until Governor Pritzker declares it is safe for our doors to reopen.
Check out a short 90-second video of the talented Center staff delivering virtual PT, OT and CET services to children with physical disabilities:
During this time of crisis, people with cerebral palsy need access to vital healthcare services to breathe every breath, and step every step. The Center is using remote communication technologies to provide skilled healthcare intervention for those most at risk, so children and young adults with cerebral palsy stay active, remain healthy, and feel safe!
The Center fully understands the emotional and financial burden this crisis is having on our families. Our top priority is making sure that children and young adults with disabilities remain healthy and active. To help make that possible, the Center will not be charging families for telehealth therapy throughout the COVID-19 crisis.
The Center estimates that we will provide over $350,000 in charitable care teletherapy services to children and young adults with disabilities throughout the duration of our closure due to the pandemic.
How Can You Help?
You can change the lives of so many hardworking children and young adults with physical disabilities by making a donation. In this time of the unknown, you can make a difference in a way that works for you. If you donate now through June 1, 2020, your gift will be MATCHED by The Coleman Foundation up to $25,000!
Thank you for supporting the Center for Independence and the dedicated children and young adults we serve.