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2025 Volleyball Challenge

Live Like Penny

Defying the Odds with Easterseals

"Easterseals is all I believe in for the best services for my family," Alexandra says.

Penny's Story: 

https://youtu.be/cmr1OLmSijU?si=nSabATZPqO0uwvVe

When Penny started receiving Easterseals Children’s Therapy services, she was unable to stand on her own. Her parents, Alexandra and Scott, were worried she may never walk, but they put their trust in Easterseals.

Easterseals works with so many families, but they treat you like you are the only family,” Alexandra says. “Easterseals wants kids to succeed. They make the hard days easier. They truly care and that speaks volumes.”

Penny, who was diagnosed with hypotonic Cerebral Palsy or low muscle tone, took her first steps at 22 months. It started with a few steps and now she is walking everywhere and able to play with her biggest supporters and older brothers, Jacob and Anderson.

“I thought she’d never walk. Saying she’s an official walker is a dream come true,” Alexandra says. “Physical Therapy is worth its weight in gold. The therapists focus on what’s best for Penny and how she can succeed.” 

For the future she is working on kicking a ball, climbing stairs safely, and walking on uneven surfaces.

“I would tell other families a diagnosis is just a label. It doesn’t determine their future,” Alexandra says. “Never question your gut. Advocate for your child. You are paving the way for other families. Penny will defy the odds.”

For over 40 years, the Volleyball Challenge has raised critically-needed funds to help Easterseals provide exceptional services to children and adults with disabilities so they can achieve their greatest level of independence. Please consider joining my team and/or donating to help us reach our goal of $5,000!

By participating in this event, everyone can help change lives. For example, $150 helps provide physical therapy for a child with developmental delays.

With your help, we can all join Easterseals in creating solutions that change lives. Please give what you can!

 

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