November 2010

Dear CP Centers’ Supporter:

We’d like to introduce ourselves, we’re the Litkey family - Dave and Dawn, and our two wonderful boys, Brett and Zachary. We have resided in the Green Bay area for over 20 years and can’t imagine a better community to raise our children in. However, it wasn’t until the birth of our second son that we would truly realize how blessed we are to live in such a generous and caring place.

Upon Zachary’s birth, it was noticed right away that he was not breathing as he should. His oxygen levels were too low, so he was immediately taken to the NICU where he would spend 21 days. During that time, it was thought he may have had fluid on his lungs. After being weaned from the ventilator and taking in fluids orally, we were released home with our new little boy. Unfortunately, it would not last long. A month and a half later we expressed concerns to our pediatrician regarding Zachary’s noisy breathing and lack of consistent drinking from a bottle, and we were directed to Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

After 10 days of numerous tests and a sleep study, it was determined that Zachary was born with laryngo-, tracheal-, and brancho- malacia, otherwise known as a “floppy airway.” Along with this came sleep apnea and acid reflux. We would not be leaving without an oximeter and our baby would require oxygen for the next 9 - 12 months. Doctors also informed us that Zachary had hypotonia, low muscle tone. Although they have never been able to give us a concrete answer as to why or where the low tone came from, they did tell us to immediately seek Birth to Three services. We were given 3 facilities to choose from. We chose the one closest to our home, the CP Center. This now is also the closest to our hearts and the most amazing place in Brown County.

At 3 months old Zachary was unable to pick up his head. A Physical Therapist came to our home and started working with him right away. By 9 months he was lying on his belly and holding his head up looking around. At this point CP Staff helped us add an Occupational Therapist, along with a Speech Therapist. As each wonderfully caring therapist came into our home, they not only worked with Zachary but also showed us how to work with him in an everyday manner. They even got his big brother Brett involved. Around the age of 18 months and being oxygen free, Zachary really started to make a connection with his therapists. Since Zachary was not talking or verbalizing yet, he would use his best tactic to divert the therapists; he would snuggle in on their shoulders and cuddle up, in hopes they would not make him work. Although it did buy him some time, as these great therapists are so loving themselves, they did catch on to his little game. Soon after, the snuggling came at the end of his sessions. Zachary made great strides and began crawling shortly after turning 2 years old. Near his 3rd birthday, he was standing while holding on to furniture.

Although we were ecstatic about Zachary’s awesome gains, we were also very troubled and saddened. What would we do once he turned 3? How could we say goodbye to these gifted people who had practically become part of our family? Our prayers were answered when it was brought to our attention that the CP Center had even more to offer than we ever dreamed. We enrolled Zachary into the CP Center’s inclusive childcare – Common Paths Early Education & Care. Not only would Zachary have peers his own age surrounding him, he would also be able to stay connected with his therapists. No one could have predicted how well Zachary would adjust to such a huge change in his routine. Once again the CP Center changed Zachary’s life.

He thrived tremendously soon after being there. His daycare teachers and peers were, and still are, 100% pure motivation for him. He loves going there every single day. A huge smile, wiggles, and giggles tell us he wouldn’t have it any other way. His therapists come and get him from day care, which allows him to utilize all facets of the facility. He loves the sensory gym where he has learned to swing and climb. By having this type of stimulation we have begun to hear Zachary’s voice; he now makes more sounds than just laughing and crying. He is also able to feed himself and drinks from a cup with limited assistance. And, thanks to his exposure to the CP pools, Zachary had the best summer ever this year. He was able to float around in his Aunt’s pool in a flotation device without any fear, which was huge. Soon, Zachary will turn 4 and is on the verge of walking!

Having this well equipped facility filled with caring staff, gifted therapists and an amazing daycare in our lives, would not be possible without the heartfelt giving and generous sharing of others like you. Thank you for making a difference in not only those with special needs, but the neighbors around you.

Sincerely,
The Litkey Family -
Dave, Dawn, Brett and Zachary

P.S. Imagine how different Zachary’s story may have been without the CP Center... Without your support, children with special needs, like Zachary, may not be able to get the help they need. Please give now.