Success Story by Jill Davis Houpt
My daughter Ellie has a rare chromosomal abnormality which we knew when she was diagnosed at 5 days old would result in developmental delay. We enrolled her in early intervention, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy at First Step in Hot Springs at 3 months old, and we have been thrilled with every aspect of our time there! Ellie began full-time preschool at 18 months from which she graduated last Friday, and we were able to enroll her in the young school-age program at First Step for Kindergarten. Thanks to First Step, I am able to concentrate on my full-time job during the day, because I know that Ellie is safe and happy in the caring, capable hands of the First Step staff. Ellie has made remarkable progress far beyond what is expected for her condition for the following two reasons: 1) Ellie is a remarkable child, and 2) the support and encouragement she received from her teachers and therapists (and family) during her 5 years at First Step. Anyone who is looking for a worthwhile cause to support has hit the jackpot with First Step!
