At three years old, Lilly aged out of Early Intervention and continued her therapies at a local school. However, these therapies did not include aquatic therapy, which Lilly benefitted from greatly. In 2011, when Easterseals Rhode Island opened the Pediatric Outpatient Program�family-centered outpatient program that provides physical and occupational therapy services for children and young adults, through age 21, Lilly was one of the first clients to join the program participating in outpatient aquatic therapy.

At three years old, Graciela Nieves is already a true inspiration! In fact, it was her determined spirit and contagious smile that were the motivation behind the opening of the Easterseals RI Pediatric Outpatient clinic. Born at just 23 weeks, a twin survivor and weighing only one pound, Graciela faced an incredible battle for survival.

When Emma was 14 months old, her Mom Donna noticed that she was continuously walking on her tippy toes. Emma�s pediatrician diagnosed her with a tight heel cord. It was recommended that she receive physical therapy. Donna immediately called Easterseals RI to seek Early Intervention (EI) services for her daughter. After a series of doctors� appointments, Emma had to undergo serial casting, which stretched her heel cord, and she was eventually fitted for a brace. Throughout her casting, Emma continued Physical Therapy through Easterseals RI.

It started as a completely normal pregnancy, says Dan. This was our third child. We had been through this before. A few days before her due date, Angela noticed the baby wasn't moving as much compared to previous days. Not sure of the circumstances, they called the doctor and explained their concerns. He directed them to come to the office, and what they thought would be a 20 minute appointment, turned into a six day hospital stay.

One glance at Madeleine "Maddie" Manglass and an instant smile comes to your face. Maddie is an adorable, vivacious 13-year-old who loves listening to music, playing on the computer, adaptive skiing, and making people happy.

In August 2009, Catherine welcomed a beautiful baby boy into the world. She was thrilled to begin a new chapter in her life � motherhood. Unfortunately, five days before Christmas, four-month-old Christian fell asleep on the couch with his caretaker, and suffered from a co-sleeping incident that left him clinging to life. Catherine found her son suffocated on the couch, gasping for air.

The second you meet 14 month-old Fiona Doyle, you will certainly fall in love. This charming little girl has a contagious smile and bubbly personality and, it won�t take you long to realize, she has an unstoppable drive that will leave you inspired.

About one year ago, fate brought these two little girls together and they have been friends ever since. Both girls were diagnosed with Down syndrome and their parents had turned to Easterseals RI for services.

In March 2011, Jason and Maria King welcomed their baby boy Mason into this world. Immediately, their new family member was whisked away by doctors leaving the first-time Mom and Dad wondering what was happening to their little boy.

Take one look at Jack Cronin and your heart instantly melts at the sight of his rosy red cheeks and bubbly personality! Jack was born on July 1, 2013, in what started out as a routine delivery. However, upon entering the world, doctors realized one very important fact: Jack was struggling to breath.

Heidi and Christopher welcomed their baby boy Ben into the world in January 2013. He was your typical baby boy who loved to laugh and play. At nearly 10 months old, Ben�s daycare noticed he was starting to show signs of developmental delays.

Vanessa and Mike eagerly awaited the arrival of their second child. In May 2013, four months before their son was due, Vanessa experienced complications and was rushed to the hospital. After six days of hospital bed rest, Vanessa gave birth to Sam.

Easterseals Walk With Me is an event to raise awareness and support for families living with disabilities! Join hundreds of passionate people in your community for a day full of entertainment, fun and, of course, our signature walk!