CORAL GABLES — A physically challenged 3-year-old Miami boy gained his independence thanks to a special gift from “Santa’s helpers. “
Connor doesn’t have the opportunity to play like other kids his age due to fitness issues that make it difficult for him to get up without help. For example, academics and university students on the campus of St. Louis University. John’s in Miami are working at St. John’s University. John’s. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) gave him the freedom to move around unaided with a modified toy Jeep.
Aspiring physical therapists and occupational therapists have traded Connor’s Jeep and other toys to meet their patients’ unique and individual desires. In addition to the hand toys, students also changed the “press and play” activity charts for younger children. All of this is imaginable thanks to the national Go Baby Go initiative, and the USAHS effort is the only one in South Florida.
On Saturday morning, the students handed the toy jeep to Connor and his parents, where he fortunately drove freely.
Rosie DeFeo, an assistant professor in the DPT program and a RESNA Assistive Technology Professional, says students learn to appreciate their role in helping patients interact with their world and explore ways to integrate technology in their practice. The kids’ smiles are an added perk.
Families are referred to USAHS by local providers and the toys are provided free of charge thanks to corporate and private donations.