Laurie Roberts, columnist with The Arizona Republic, wrote Wednesday about a four-year-old who needs $5,000 in equipment. The state of Arizona has turned her down. What issues does she face?
Hydrocephalus
Cerebral Palsy
Scoliosis
Seizures
Severe delays
Doctors say Maria will be deaf and blind, and never able to feed herself or walk. But her parents know their daughter can do more if given a chance.
Rather than blame the state, although of course this must be addressed, and is being addressed next Monday at a hearing, perhaps people could stay tuned to Roberts’ blog and see how things turn our. If there’s a further delay, then perhaps concerned people could send some money to the family.
It’s just that doctors have expressed concern that she must stand as soon as possible to hopefully avoid further deterioration of her little body. As Roberts says, the sooner she is upright, the better. I’ll keep you posted.
NOTE: Saturday’s paper published an update. People came through, offering lots of help. The state will approve of the walker Maria needs. And the El Zaribah Shrine will provide the stander. What an outpouring of support for Maria’s parents! And the article itself is an encouragement. Roberts quotes the grandmother of a child with disabilities: “Never give up on these children. They surprise us so much.”