Easter Seals Disability Services

Introducing Maya
2009 Easter Seals NH Child Representative

"We see progress everyday..." If Maya’s head of bouncy curls isn’t a perfect match for her bubbly personality, then her happy eyes and infectious smile would be. Maya, age 2 1/2 , is the Easter Seals New Hampshire child representative—an important job that will take her and mom Jeanette, dad Steve and big sister Ilana around the state to share their Easter Seals success story. And it’s a good story!

Maya, who was recently diagnosed with a white matter brain injury as a result of possible cord strangulation before birth, began receiving Easter Seals Early Intervention services from an occupational therapist when she was six months old.

“When she was about four months old, we noticed she wasn’t grabbing at toys or her pacifier with her left hand so we requested an evaluation,” said Jeanette. “In the beginning, her therapy consisted of tummy play and anything that got her to use her left side such as dangling toys on the left.”

Maya went from a left hand that hung with no mobility to brining her hand in front of her and then putting her hand straight out. “It has been a blessing to have Easter Seals come,” said Jeanette. “It has been a great educational experience and we have learned what we need to look for.”

Maya started walking on her 2nd birthday. It was a milestone day!

“We’ve had doctors tell us she may not crawl and that her walking and speaking could be delayed,” says Jeanette. “When you’re faced with the possibility that certain milestones may not be reached or may be delayed, all you can do is try.”

And Easter Seals Occupational Therapist Laura Psaledas has been there to help Maya and her family “try” through therapy involving food and play. 

“Maya has made nice progress in therapy, we have focused on building up her strength, coordination and hand dexterity on the left side,” says Laura. “One of her favorite sessions was painting with shaving cream on an easel; we both enjoyed making a big mess with that. Her sister is a fabulous role model for Maya as well. Maya will try just about anything if she has Ilana to encourage and demonstrate for her.”

And Maya also finds encouragement from Laura. When Laura arrives for therapy, Maya runs to her with open arms. This smart and witty little girl has learned at an early age that with strong determination she can do anything she sets her mind to.

“Maya couldn’t have done it on her own,” says Jeanette. “And we couldn’t have done it without Easter Seals.”

Learn more about Easter Seals NH Early Intervention services

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