Child Development Resources

Supporting Child Development - Cadence’s Story

When the Ferrell’s youngest daughter, Cadence, was diagnosed at birth with Down Syndrome, it was a complete surprise to the family. However, less than two weeks later, Kara Trahant, a Speech and Language Pathologist from Child Development Resources (CDR), arrived on their doorstep, with a ready smile and constant encouragement. Kara visited their home once a week for almost three years; she worked first on breast feeding, and then with Cadence on facial muscle tone and her beginning speech sounds. Kara was later joined by Lynn Wolfe, who helped Cadi with occupational therapy twice a month to get her up and moving.

Three years is a long time and Kara and Lynn now seem like family to Cadi and her mom. Now that she's three, Cadence has transferred to the public school preschool program for her speech and occupational therapy. She is now cheerfully hopping onto the school bus in the mornings with her little Elmo backpack. This transition has been an easy one for the petite 3-year-old, thanks to Kara and Lynn from CDR!

As parents to a child with a disability, Cadi’s family truly understands the saying that it takes a village to raise a child. CDR is a dedicated and caring part of that village!

You can help give babies and toddlers a great start by designating Child Development Resources, CVC #4009 when you make your pledge for 2011.

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