Transforming Moments

Shannon’s Story

Moving Ahead

Shannon works so hard that Allison, who began treating Shannon in March 2010, recently updated her occupational therapy goals to focus on more advanced fine motor skills like using scissors, visual motor skills like copying complex shapes, fine motor skills like folding, strength activities like postural control and self-care skills such as using snaps and buttons.

“Shannon is a hard worker and loves getting it right,” said Gail Grubb, MA, CCC-SLP, speech therapist. “When I first met Shannon, she wasn’t communicating well. Now we’re working on grammar and using proper verb tenses.”

“Since birth, Shannon has overcome many hurdles,” said Paul of his daughter’s premature birth at 34 weeks and open heart surgery at six months of age. “We knew from the first day she was born a fighter. We are so proud of all her accomplishments.”

After more than three years, Maureen said Shannon’s therapists have become her support team and a part of their family. She appreciates how Shannon’s therapists “read her really well” and “know Shannon almost as well as I do.”

“The good thing about Children’s Hospital of Richmond,” remarked Maureen, “is they look at kids as individuals and don’t identify them by their disability.”

Shannon’s bubbly personality is contagious with Bon Air’s other patients and staff. She has developed friendships with many of the children she sees each week and even has her first crush on “Mr. Andrew,” one of the therapy technicians whose photograph she proudly displays on her dining room table.

“From Ms. Kelli at the front desk to all the therapists, we love everyone,” said Maureen. “They’re always willing to go the extra mile and really take time to get to know you.”

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