Two-Year-Old Displaying Exceptional Improvement With Family Caregiver

Two-year-old Charli was born with a rare brain disorder called bilateral schizencephaly, a birth defect characterized by abnormal clefts in the cerebral hemispheres. In addition, she was diagnosed with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy (CP), hip dysplasia and partial symptomatic epilepsy with complex partial seizures. 

CP is a disorder that affects a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture, and is caused by damage to the developing brain that affects a person’s ability to control their muscles. CP is the most common motor disability in childhood and affects approximately four infants in every 1,000 born in the United States. 

Spastic CP is the most common type of CP, affecting 80 percent of individuals diagnosed with CP. Children diagnosed with spastic CP, like Charli, have increased muscle tone which means their muscles are stiff and their movements can be awkward. 

“At Solace Pediatric Healthcare, we believe no one makes a better caregiver than a loved one, which is a big reason why the Family Caregiver program was unveiled last year. We simply equip the caregivers with the necessary tools to deliver that care,” said Liz F., family caregiver/community outreach lead.

The home care assistance programs in Colorado allow family members (caregivers) the opportunity to earn an income for the care they provide in the home. Both programs, Family CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) and In-Home Support Services (IHSS), generate employment for the caregiver, while also providing the patient with the highest quality care.

Charli’s mother, Alyssa, officially joined the Solace team as an active Family CNA in November 2022. 

“Charli’s still a spunky little girl. We call her our ‘cheeky baby’. She has the sweetest smile that could warm anyone’s heart,” said Alyssa.

“I really loved going back to school and getting the skills and training I needed. I found it super beneficial and I’m happy I can give Charli better care knowing I have the knowledge and confidence in what I’m doing.”

“They really make it feel like a family and I couldn’t ask to be employed by a better company. Everyone I have interacted with has been so lovely and helpful. I cannot say enough nice things about Liz F. I have always felt welcomed and informed. Any question I have is answered promptly or directed to whoever would be best to help,” added Alyssa. 

Charli’s Plan of Care, Progress to Date

Charli receives occupational and physical therapies twice a week, which includes stretching her muscles, muscle memory and core/neck strengthening. 

Her day-to-day care through the Family CNA program includes positioning/repositioning to help with mobility and comfort, donning and doffing her hand splints, stretches, feedings, pericare, and checking skin integrity.

Today Charli is doing well. Before regular therapies and home stretching, Charli was really stiff and didn’t have a lot of neck control. Now, her hands open more in a relaxed state and she’s able to move her arms more than she could. 

“Charli also rolls slightly without my assistance, and she is able to pick-up her head/shoulders while laying down, which she has never done before. She is becoming so strong and I’m very proud of her.”

“I really love working for Solace. They actually care about their employees and of course Charli girl. Anyone looking into Solace for employment, I’d say, do it! They will have no regret choosing Solace. They are friendly, caring, and just want to see you succeed in giving awesome care,” adds Alyssa.

Interested in Becoming a Family CNA?

If your loved one has a long-term diagnosis requiring daily care, reach out to us to determine if you are eligible to participate in one of these impactful home health aide/home care assistance programs, receive weekly competitive compensation, and a multitude of benefits. We are here to guide and offer support through this process every step of the way!

• STEP 1: Call us at 303.432.8487, Ext. 6, or visit our website to complete a brief assessment form.
• STEP 2: Solace will send a Registered Nurse to your home to determine qualification.
• STEP 3: If eligible, Solace will enroll you in a CNA course, FREE of charge.
• STEP 4: Complete school, a brief orientation, and you are officially an employee of Solace.
• STEP 5: Employees will be paid weekly for their care and receive a multitude of benefits.

Solace Pediatric Healthcare is the leading provider of family caregiver, occupational, physical, speech and feeding therapy services. Since 2005, our clinicians have provided pediatric care to children from birth to 21 years of age. We offer comprehensive pediatric therapy services in Colorado and Arizona.

At Solace, we’ve instilled a culture built on trust, communication, teamwork and accountability. Our mission is to provide pediatric clinical services to help children and families live their best lives.

References: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention