Leonardo

Meet 3-year-old Leonardo who loves playing with his older brothers and helping mom by letting everyone know what needs to get done.

Leonardo was the second preemie born to the Velazquez family, but he had the added title of “micro” and spent 125 days in the neonatal intensive care unit. Initially, the family received support for the care their son needed, but when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, everything stopped.

Leonardo’s mom, Laura was concerned because the family had little in the way of financial resources and found it difficult to navigate care over the internet. But Laura is a believer in early intervention, so when Leonardo was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, she struck out on a journey for support.

When they were no longer able to receive care in their home and Leonardo continued to grow without the ability to move, Laura became desperate. However, once she found Southwest Human Development and the resources available at the ADAPT Shop, she “saw light at the end of the tunnel.”

When they were no longer able to receive care in their home and Leonardo continued to grow without the ability to move, Laura became desperate. However, once she found Southwest Human Development and the resources available at the ADAPT Shop, she “saw light at the end of the tunnel.”

From the moment they came to the ADAPT Shop, the family felt an overwhelming sense of comfort and genuine care from the team. Leonardo was able to borrow a gait trainer to help him walk. The family also tried an adaptive bike to help with strength and coordination. Leonardo excelled at the bike and soon began to walk more on his own.

Laura truly believes that Leonardo would not be able to move if it wasn’t for the equipment and the therapeutic exercises he received from the ADAPT Shop. She is thankful for the safe and positive environment she encountered.

Leonardo continues to receive therapy and is now getting ready to begin preschool in the fall. His family is excited for his growing confidence and the new friends he will meet.