A young boy with a vast impact: Oliver’s inspiring story

Oliver, the youngest of three, is a boy who loves to play. Tee-ball, soccer and even just running in the yard bring a bright smile to his face. And he loves school. “Oliver asks to go to school every day, even during the summer,” says his mom, Alison.

But his parents weren’t always sure these activities would be possible or enjoyable for him because of his condition. Oliver has Down syndrome. The genetic disorder affects every aspect of his life, from how he eats and sleeps to how he plays and grows.

“What’s typical of kids with Down syndrome is low muscle tone,” explains Alison. This greatly impacts his ability to play. In addition, children with Down syndrome experience cognitive developmental delays to varying degrees.

Giving Oliver every opportunity to learn, grow and play became his parents’ priority. So they turned to Beacon, whose pediatric specialists and therapists help Oliver do everything he loves.

“We’ve had the help of some awesome therapists at Beacon that definitely got us to where we are today.”

How connecting with heart makes a difference

Down syndrome is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing therapy and specialty care. For Oliver, that means feeding, physical and speech therapy. Additionally, he sees pediatric sleep medicine doctors and endocrinologists to help with regulating his sleep cycles and endocrine system.

Oliver is an active kid with two busy siblings and two full-time working parents. With so many appointments each month, exceptional local care is essential for Oliver’s family. Being close to home means less time traveling for appointments – and more time enjoying Tee-ball, soccer and school. That’s why Beacon’s pediatric specialists are located throughout Michiana.

“They have been instrumental in helping us get where we are,” says Alison. “And we hope to always have them on our team to help him get where he’s going.”

Help us care for more kids like Oliver

Beacon pediatric specialists create a safe and welcoming space for children across the region. Our care teams are honored to provide compassionate care to children like Oliver, close to home. Less time traveling for specialized pediatric treatment means more time doing what they love. Give now.