2009 St. Louis Area Walk for Children with Apraxia of Speech
Unlock Our Voices; Open Our Futures!
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2009 9:00AM Check-in/10:00 AM Walk Longview Farm Park 13525 Clayton Road Town & Country, MO 63141
Reagan is an affectionate, happy little three year old who loves playing with her big sister and friends. Although she has such a wonderful disposition, Reagan grapples with a skill that comes naturally for most children. Otherwise healthy as an infant, Reagan was very quiet and did not babble or make many of the other priceless baby sounds associated with newborns. As concern grew of her speech development, we requested a speech and language evaluation at 18 months of age. After observing Reagan, the therapist asked me if I had ever heard of the term apraxia. Unfamiliar with this condition, we were initially consumed with concern, fear, and uncertainty as to what the future would hold for our daughter. How will this impact her quality of life? How will other children treat her? Will she be able to tell me what she wants? Will I ever hear my little girl say “I love you”?
With a cloudy prognosis and desperate for information, my husband and I were fortunate that we found the support and direction we needed with the help of CASANA (Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America). We were able to quickly educate ourselves on CAS (Childhood Apraxia of Speech) and determine the best way to help our daughter reach her potential. Over the course of eighteen months, Reagan has made a great deal of progress but, as with many severe cases of CAS, she faces a long road ahead of her.
In order to raise awareness about apraxia & to support CASANA and the thousands of children struggling with the challenges of CAS, we have organized a Walk-a-Thon to help raise awareness and financial support for this worthy cause. All proceeds raised in connection with the walk-a-thon will benefit CASANA’s programs and research. All donations are tax deductible.
The walk will be a one mile loop through the scenic trails of Longview Park in Town and Country. This is a family-friendly park with a beautiful lake and fountain, horse stables and a great playground for children. Please join us on our walk.
Register by October 5, 2009 to receive your Apraxia Walk T-shirt! Thank you!
~Jennifer Weber, St. Louis, Missouri Apraxia Walk Coordinator
