Meet Milo!

Milo is a smart, sweet, and sensitive three-year-old. He's curious and determined and deceptively observant (especially when it comes to the location of the fun-sized M&Ms bag). He's obsessed with all things Pixar, and if you hang out with him long enough he will dress you up as one of his favorite characters (good luck breathing inside the Monster's Inc mask)! 

Speech has always been a struggle for Milo. His Mamas, Brittany and Kaitlynn, first noticed a delay around his one-year check-up. Despite the continuous advice to "wait it out" and "boys just talk later," they sought therapy a few months later. Milo has been in speech therapy ever since. His receptive language has exploded, but his expressive is quite delayed. Milo has about ten words consistently, many of which cannot be understood outside of close family and friends. As an insightful preschooler, this weighs on Milo, who is frustrated as to why others cannot understand him while he tells them long stories about his toys, his day, and his favorite color. His intonation, facial expressions, and laughter help get his points across, but we know there is more to what Milo has to say. 

We know Milo has a voice. 

It has become evident that Milo has a rare and complex condition called Childhood Apraxia of Speech. In a nutshell, his brain knows WHAT to say, but when he tells his brain to say it, there is a disconnect. In many instances, children with this condition believe they are truly speaking what they are thinking, and so they are naturally puzzled when others do not understand them. Because this condition is rare, there are few therapists who know how to give Milo what he needs. Because it is complex, the therapy Milo needs is extensive and intensive. Many insurance companies do not cover therapy for Apraxia, and if they do, they cap services at 30 sessions a year. A child with Apraxia could meet that number of sessions in a matter of two months easily. 

What Would Help Milo?

Milo needs more therapy. And fast. Early intervention is key with this condition. 

He needs a therapist who not only has the time to do multiple sessions a week, but a therapist trained in alternative methods beyond traditional speech therapy (like those sessions done in public schools, which he does do).

Finally, Milo's parents need training in how to incorporate best practices at home.

Where Will the Money Go?

Any money made from this fundraiser will go towards Milo's therapy, which is estimated to be about $500/ month. It will also go towards parent training and, if we can raise enough funds and have Milo qualify, a video evaluation and intensive therapy seminar with Nancy Kaufman (a leading researcher in Childhood Apraxia of Speech). This intensive therapy lasts over multiple days and comes with rave reviews from parents. It includes the entire family and personalized treatment plans for the child to help them succeed. 

Thank You!

We thank you from the bottoms of our hearts for reading our story. Even if you feel compelled to help Milo but do not have the funds to donate, there are other things you can do. Educate yourself on Childhood Apraxia of Speech. Share Milo's story. And, most importantly, spread love to all those around you. You never know what someone could be going through. 

Finally, Milo's Favorite Song!