Joel moved into the Center for Medically Fragile Children when he was three. For his family, it was the hardest but best decision they ever made.
Carrie and Nate knew at seven months that something wasn’t quite right. Unlike his twin brother, Joel couldn’t track an object with his eyes, he couldn’t hold his head up and he wasn’t rolling over or trying to crawl. Joel has cerebral palsy.
For a time they managed to care for Joel at home, barely. He suffers from multiple seizure activity on a daily basis and needs constant monitoring. Sleep came in small doses. They were exhausted.
“We took advantage of the respite care at the Child Center,” said Carrie. “It was then that we realized how much Joel needed 24-hour care. We were lucky there was an opening at the Child Center for him.” Although it was hard to go home without Joel, “even 12 years later we know it was the right decision for him and for our family.”
"We can truly say that the Child Center saved our family."
- Carrie
Now 15, Joel attends Grant High School in Portland. His family visits Joel all the time and swim with him every Sunday for aquatic therapy. Often, Carrie and Kyle, Joel’s twin brother, go on field trips with Joel.
“The caregivers at Providence have become an extension of our family,” said Carrie. “All of them care for Joel with such warmth and compassion. We can truly say that the Child Center saved our family. Thank you for supporting this amazing place and these amazing people.”
