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Mario has Arthrogryposis, a rare genetic disorder
that is characterized by joint contractures that prevent him from bending his
arms and legs.
Because of this, Mario is unable to stand or walk independently, limiting his mobility to “scooting” while sitting on
the floor. Though he has significant
limitations, there is a piece of equipment at Penfield that allows Mario to
leave the confines of his body and run through the halls of Penfield, just like
any other child his age. It’s called a
gait trainer, and it gives Mario the support and confidence he needs to stand
upright and walk on his own.
When you watch Mario’s video, you’ll see for
yourself what the gait trainer has done for his independence and well
being. You’ll also understand why we
want to help more of our children with lower extremity disabilities experience
what it feels like to walk on their own.
We need your help to purchase a toddler “Up n’ Go” gait trainer. Like Mario’s, this piece of equipment will
help build strength and balance while also supporting older and taller
children. With a fundraising goal of
$4,500, we will be able to purchase one brand new toddler “Up n’ Go” gait
trainer for permanent use in our Center.
To accommodate the needs of our older children - and Mario as he
continues to grow - we need your help. Specifically, we need your
support to purchase the toddler "Up n' Go" gait trainer. This piece of
equipment will help provide better physical therapy services for children with
disabilities. Make a donation and spread the word to your friends and social
networks easily through Indiegogo’s sharing tools.
Please help give children, just like Mario, the opportunity to push beyond their limits, stand up and walk.