Shane Michael came into this world three months earlier than we expected at 25 weeks old weighing 2 pounds, 1 ounce. I can’t begin to tell you how frightened both my husband and myself were. Shane was in the NICU unit for the next three months where he overcame many obstacles. When he was about a month old he got an infection in his intestines called NEC and his weight dropped down to 1 lb 8 oz., we thought we would lose him but, the tough little guy that he is, he bounced back in about a week and we counted every ounce he gained each day.

After a double hernia operation, we brought Shane home early June, 2004. He weighed 4 lbs, 13 oz. and looked lost in his car seat. The hospital informed us we were eligible for a program called Early Intervention which offers all types of therapy for children with special needs. They told us Shane might have some issues and would be behind in his development.

Marzena, our physical therapist, came into our lives about a month later.

Marzena told us Shane was “low toned” which is very common in premature babies. When we first met, Shane could barley lift his head. He never reached the “fetal position” so he was hyper-extended and unable to bring his hands together. Within a month, therapy three times a week, Marzena had Shane touching his hands together, holding up his head and more alert!! It seamed like months before he would roll over, sit up or even clap hands. I was amazed when Shane took his first steps at 17 months old (not bad for someone who was 3 months early!).

Marzena comforted me when I was in doubt, was a great source of strength and encouragement, bonded with my son and inspired and motivated him to push to the next level.

I am so proud to say Shane is now 18 months old, 27 lbs (within the 50% of a baby born full term) running, catching a ball and attempting to climb the stairs by himself. Marzena has been a godsend, she is truly the most talented, knowledgeable, professional, creative, and enthusiastic therapist I have met and I recommend her to everyone I meet.

We are so thankful for Marzena everyday!

Rose, John & Baby Shane