We are loving our new custom-built chairs for the kids! In 2024, our generous donors gave enough funds for our carpenter to build more than 16 new chairs fitted to our special needs kiddos.
Khalil is 6-years old and has hydrocephalus; his new chair was built just for him. This brave little guy has had over 9 corrective surgeries for his condition, but he is unable to sit or use his hands effectively. He loves to come to the Shield each week and is happy to see his friends. In his new chair, he is so happy to be able to sit up well and participate in the singing and hearing the story read to the class. We are working with him to develop some ability to use his hands. His new chair is really going to help him use his hands more. We have seen improvement with his hand use as he tries to take objects now when offered, which is exciting for us all.
The kids are all excited about their new chairs that are making it possible for them to sit well during their lessons. Many of our kids have standard cognitive functioning, but struggle greatly to use their bodies to communicate or care for themselves. Our hope is they are able to better sit up, so they can begin using their hands to express some of their knowledge during their lessons.
Before our donors stepped in, we had been using used car seats to prop up children for their tutoring sessions at the Center (see video below). Now, the new chairs support students core muscle groups while they sit for sessions: such an improvement. Khalil has already seen some progress and loves his new little chair.
Comments