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With support from Akron Children’s and a special vest, son can sit and stand on his own

rylandMy son, Ryland, spent the first 3 weeks of his life in Akron Children’s NICU. He experienced a lack of oxygen during birth, which caused hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE).

As a result, he has cerebral palsy, epilepsy and many developmental delays. But his determination and demeanor never wavers. Our son is the most inspiring person we know.

Akron Children’s occupational and physical therapists have been working with my 16-month-old son for almost a year now. They’ve shown us many stretching and massaging techniques to loosen Ryland up and break up some of his high muscle tone before he moves on to physical activity. They’ve also made sure his night-wear hand splints are adjusted as he grows.

They’ve introduced us to many pieces of therapy equipment, such as his peanut-shaped physio ball, the Creepster Crawler and the Benik vest. The vest is amazing. It helped him sit and stand completely unsupported by us for the first time ever.

Ryland wearing his Benik vestThey have also put us on the list for hydrotherapy, which he will start this summer.

The environment in the PT/OT department is always so calm and positive, and I know Ryland is in the best hands during our weekly appointments. We always leave with some new information that will benefit our son.

I can’t rave enough about the PT/OT department. We love the staff at Akron Children’s!


As part of our year-long anniversary celebration, we’ll be telling the story of Akron Children’s through the eyes of past and present employees, doctors, donors, volunteers and patient families. We encourage you to share your own memories and stories about us.

Related posts:

  1. Personalized care helps NICU grad overcome breathing difficulties
  2. Thanks for saving my 2 sons
  3. So thankful for Akron Children’s Mahoning Valley for saving my triplets
  4. Harper’s rollercoaster NICU journey

Related Content

  1. Personalized care helps NICU grad overcome breathing difficulties
  2. Thanks for saving my 2 sons
  3. So thankful for Akron Children’s Mahoning Valley for saving my triplets
  4. Harper’s rollercoaster NICU journey

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