Claudia's Story
Claudia accomplished a lot last year. As a nine-year-old young lady with cerebral palsy (CP), she struggled to be successful in a typical second-grade classroom. Claudia's efforts have paid off because next fall she will enter third grade with the rest of her classmates.
Claudia's spirit and drive are a big part of who she is. Finally able to be mainstreamed in school with her peers, Claudia has put her gifts to work. Because of her special needs, she's been able to develop certain qualities other children recognize much later — qualities such as persistence, patience and tolerance, to name just a few. By being herself, Claudia changed the attitudes of classmates unfamiliar with physical differences. During the year she made many friends. Her mom, Dr. Karyn Hirsch, commented:
"There's a bigotry of low expectations for these kids — it's insulting. Claudia showed that she is able to process knowledge and learn. In her own way, Claudia changed the whole classroom — it was an extraordinary experience for everybody."
Living with the many aspects of CP is not easy. Like many children with severe CP, Claudia has been very ill with respiratory infections many times. As a result of low muscle tone, swallowing difficulties and weak cough, she has chronic problems keeping her airways free of secretions. Claudia's life improved when her pediatrician recommended using The Vest® Airway Clearance System.
At first, Claudia's mom was understandably skeptical. As a physician, Dr. Hirsch recognized the importance of good secretion clearance. The family used a variety of treatments, including chest physiotherapy (CPT), but respiratory illnesses recurred. The Vest® System, however, proved to have a positive effect. She is now enthusiastic:
"The Vest® System makes thorough respiratory hygiene possible on a consistent basis. It is elegant in its simplicity of concept, especially since it is non-invasive and enjoyable for Claudia. It is very effective in helping to keep her bronchial passages clear. Since she breathes more efficiently with less secretions, I believe her chances of being set up for respiratory infection are decreased."
Using The Vest® System has been a boon for Claudia and her family. Since she began to use The Vest® System, she has had fewer illnesses requiring antibiotics, fewer fevers, and higher oxygen levels. Her quality of breathing is improved, as well as, her quality of life. Now Claudia can concentrate on enjoying life and achieving her personal goals. Clearly, Claudia is blossoming!