For Emmy, occupational therapy became more than a place to work on skills. It became a place where she could learn more about herself, build confidence and prepare for whatever came next. Emmy began occupational therapy (OT) following her autism diagnosis. At the time, her mom, Morgan, wasn’t sure what to expect. Everything felt new …
At first glance, it might look like an ordinary moment: an 11-year-old boy getting himself a drink from the refrigerator. But for Brandy, it was something much bigger. For the first time at 11 years old, Duncan got up, grabbed a cup, grabbed the juice from the fridge, took the cap off without help, poured …
At just five years old, Julian’s determination shines as bright as his smile. Living with cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder, he faces challenges daily, but thanks to support from Variety St. Louis and our generous community partners, Julian is making incredible progress toward independence, confidence and joy. Before receiving therapy and equipment through Variety, …
Resilient Remi When Sarah and Blake welcomed their son, Remington, they expected a smooth, healthy journey ahead. Despite an uncomplicated pregnancy, everything changed when Remi began having seizures shortly after birth, resulting in a 45-day stay in the NICU. As Remi grew, it became clear that while his body faced obstacles due to cerebral palsy, …
Easton’s story beautifully illustrates the transformative impact of Variety’s My Voice® program. Watch his journey below and see how this vital assistive technology empowers Easton to share his unique voice with the world. Empowering Variety Kids Through Communication Imagine being unable to communicate verbally – how would this impact your daily life? Many children with …
Unleashing Hudson’s Full Potential Nine-year-old Hudson showcases the transformative impact that takes place when children with special needs gain access to the right programs and opportunities. Born with a brain injury that led to a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, Hudson has faced significant challenges from the very start. Spending 28 days in the NICU and …
TherHappy Kid August Makes His Mark Six-year-old August and his family cherish quality time through shared creativity. Each family member has their own spot at the dining room table to create works of art, and August’s father – an artist himself – encourages coloring outside of the lines. Now covered in clay, watercolor, and permanent …
Owen and Liam are Ready for Kindergarten! “Cheez-It” Owen said with his hand-held communication device before popping the beloved snack into his mouth. He smiled with delight. His speech-therapist, Anna, cheered. His mother Michelle, who was watching the in-home therapy session, cried. In the next room, Owen’s twin brother Liam sat on a crash pad …
A couple of years ago, Variety Kid Maisy attended a birthday party at a ranch. There, she not only got to ride a horse for the first time, but she formed a connection with one of the horses. She fed him and petted him, laughing, smiling, and communicating in her own unique way. You see, Maisy, …
For a while, many things felt nearly impossible to Variety Kid Andrew. He suffered a spinal cord injury in an accident when he was just four years old, leaving him unable to walk. But that didn’t keep him from doing one of the things he loved most – swimming. Over the years, Andrew has continued …
Variety Teen Madi is very busy and active. She likes to do a ton of activities, many with Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis. Madi attends Teen Camp every summer, participates in our Variety Theatre program and also joins in during various social group outings, among others. So, it’s safe to say that she …
