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Kids Health Matters
Topic: Disability Advocacy

Home / Kids Health Matters / Disability Advocacy
Disability Advocacy

Fact v. Fiction: The COVID-19 Vaccine 

Now that vaccine eligibility has expanded in many states, we thought it might be helpful to sit down with Tori Bahr, MD, a pediatric complex care physician at Gillette to discuss the facts about the COVID-19 vaccines that are currently available. 
Apr. 2, 2021
Disability Advocacy

Why I’m Here: For My Brother, for My Patients

When I work with my patients at Gillette, I try not to impose my story and my “why” on them and their families. But inevitably, it comes up. My younger brother, Peter has cerebral palsy. He’s why I do what I do and why I’m here. I’m immensely proud of him and grateful to have had the privilege of being his sister.
Mar. 28, 2021
Disability Advocacy

“This book changed my life.” A Year of Gillette Press Helping People Understand CP

Families are giving praise and support to Spastic Diplegia—Bilateral Cerebral Palsy written by Ireland-based author, Lily Collison. The book was released by Gillette Children’s Healthcare Press just before the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020.
Mar. 23, 2021
Disability Advocacy

A Crowning Achievement for Joe

March is National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month. Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare enhances the lives of people who have cerebral palsy (CP) and advocates for their well-being and care. Joe Carr has received CP care at Gillette for most of his life. He recently received a special honor from his high school classmates and is a strong example of Gillette’s focus on inclusion and realizing your potential.
Mar. 8, 2021
Disability Advocacy

Vaccine Prioritization: A Letter from Gillette to Governor Walz and Commissioner Malcom

In light of current guidelines that determine who is eligible for vaccine prioritization, Gillette reached out to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Commissioner Jan Malcom to urge them to consider the inclusion of people who have disabilities.
Feb. 12, 2021
Disability Advocacy

Trust Your Instincts: A Craniosynostosis Journey

The Quinn family shares their experience about their newborn daughter receiving a diagnosis of craniosynostosis. They appreciate the Gillette team approach to care which allows for collaboration between the neurosurgeon and the plastic surgeon to formulate a clear, patient-specific plan. Two surgeons working side-by-side in the operating room decreases operating time and reduces the length of exposure a child has to general anesthesia.
Jan. 19, 2021
Disability Advocacy

Safe Winter Fun During COVID-19

Even in a normal year, the winter months can present challenges when it comes to getting out and staying active. In a time when many would be transitioning to doing more activities indoors, the COVID-19 pandemic has introduced additional challenges. However, there are still many ways to stay active and have fun this winter.
Jan. 13, 2021
Disability Advocacy
Boy sledding in the snow during winter.

No Helmet, No Slide: Wear a Helmet While Sledding, Because Your Brain Matters

Going sledding is ridiculously fun, but it can also be dangerous. Wearing a helmet makes it safer.
Jan. 5, 2021
Disability Advocacy

My New Year’s Resolution For Now and Always: Being Courageous for My Daughter

Most parents would tell you that having a child changes your life in ways you never could have imagined. That certainly was the case for my husband, Mike and me. Our daughter, Peyton, is now 9 years old, and it’s been a journey of hope, faith and love.
Dec. 28, 2020
Disability Advocacy

It’s More than a Doll: The Value of Seeing Yourself in the World

In a time where many may feel disconnected, the providers at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare are going out of their way to remind our patients and their families that we see them and that their inclusion matters. This is happening in a variety of ways, but let’s start with a girl named Mari and her new doll.
Dec. 13, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Not All Heroes Wear Capes, But Colton Does 

For families like Colton’s, the costs of care can be overwhelming. That’s why our donor-funded Gillette Assistance Program exists—to help families worry less about finances so they can focus solely on their child’s care. Not all heroes wear capes, but you can become a hero for kids like Colton when you support Gillette with your donation today. 
Nov. 30, 2020
Disability Advocacy

A Conversation with Angela Sinner, DO

Angela Sinner, DO has worked as a Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine Physician at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare for nearly a decade. She is the co-director of Gillette's inpatient rehabilitation unit and Sinner specializes in treating cerebral palsy, muscle spasticity and tone management, as well as traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. Learn more about her, here:
Nov. 24, 2020
Disability Advocacy

COVID-19 Cases Spike in Minnesota  

Minnesota and neighboring states have hit record numbers of COVID-19 cases recently. This spike in cases of the virus prompted Minnesota Governor, Tim Walz, to announce increased restrictions regarding group gatherings earlier this afternoon. These new restrictions will be enacted at 10 p.m. on Friday, November 13.
Nov. 12, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Let’s Chat About Spina Bifida

October is Spina Bifida Awareness Month as well as National Bullying Prevention Month. Most people have experienced some form of bullying during their lives, but unfortunately, many children who have disabilities experience this much more acutely. Earlier this year Gillette patients, Chloe and Gracie sat down to talk about the care they received at Gillette. They also touched on some of the bullying they dealt with at school along the way.
Oct. 30, 2020
Disability Advocacy

The Miracle of Owen

Owen Nei is 11 years old, an avid hockey and baseball player, and a young man who lights up every room he’s in with his positive, irrepressible attitude. Given how his life started out, the fact that he’s even here, much less doing all of these things, is nothing short of a miracle.
Oct. 26, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Chloe and Gracie, Connected by Friendship, a Bridge and Spina Bifida

October is Spina Bifida Awareness Month and October 25 is World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day. To recognize the day and the month, we're sharing the story of Chloe and Gracie, two longtime Gillette patients connected by spina bifida, but much more than that, their profound friendship. Read their story here.
Oct. 25, 2020
Disability Advocacy
Linda Krach, MD, Rehabilitation Medicine, Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare

A Multi-Disciplinary Team Approach to Spina Bifida Care

Spina bifida is fairly common, occurring in one of every 1,500 births, and is a complex condition that requires a team of experts to make sure each child can thrive. A team of Gillette specialists, including neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, urologists, rehabilitation medicine specialists, therapists, psychologists, social workers, and orthotists is ready to help parents and referring providers create a treatment plan especially designed for each child diagnosed with spina bifida.
Oct. 23, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Dreaming in the Time of COVID-19: A Cerebral Palsy Book is Launched Despite a Worldwide Pandemic

On World Cerebral Palsy Day, Gillette Children’s Healthcare Press is pleased to highlight a book that combines medically rigorous medical information and the personal story of a mother searching for the best care for her son who is diagnosed with CP. Spastic Diplegia—Bilateral Cerebral Palsy is written by Lily Collison, an Ireland-based author and the mother of a Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare patient.
Oct. 6, 2020
Disability Advocacy
October is National Bullying Prevention Month

Words Can Break Your Heart

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. While much has been done to help curb bullying behavior, the statistics show more needs to be done. One study shows 60 percent of children who have disabilities report being bullied regularly.
Oct. 5, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Grady’s Grit: Cerebral Palsy and Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Surgery

"Grady’s so much more than his condition. The way we see it is that God gave us this incredibly cool kid who’s had to deal with a few things. We've had challenges, but life is good even when stuff is hard. Either way, because of Gillette and the care they provide, Grady's future will be whatever he decides it to be. That’s no small thing.”
Sep. 18, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Super Sam and Cerebral Palsy

At Target Field, every Sunday is Kid’s Day and on a beautiful summer day in August of 2019, Samuel Anastos scored the first honorary run of a Minnesota Twins game. It was a joyous moment made all the more meaningful because there was a time in Sam’s life when his parents questioned whether he would learn to walk or talk, much less run.
Sep. 16, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Together, We CAN Support Research at Gillette

There's a new level of excitement and commitment to conducting research at Gillette that could change and improve the lives of countless numbers of children everywhere, and donor support is pivotal in leading the charge. 
Aug. 31, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Gagnon’s new role in MNAAP means a stronger voice for Gillette and our families

The associate medical director of pediatrics at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare, Madeleine Gagnon, MD, was recently appointed to the Board of the Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (MNAAP).
Aug. 24, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Speak Now for Kids Week Gives Patient and Family Advocates a Platform  

Speak Now for Kids Week is a public platform for citizen advocates to learn, get involved and influence the outcomes of current child health policies. This year, three Gillette families met with representatives from the Minnesota Congressional Delegation to advocate for kids and Children's Hospitals.
Aug. 14, 2020
Disability Advocacy

The Marvelous, Mountain Biking Mari

With her shock of blonde hair blowing in the wind, Mari laughs while flying down the trails on her mountain bike and has aspirations to conquer the monkey bars at her local playground. These athletic feats become all the more impressive when you consider the fact that Mari was born missing nearly all of the fingers on her right hand.
Aug. 12, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Gillette provides expert help as CDC predicts Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) outbreak

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning parents and medical professionals that 2020 will be another peak year for cases of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) a rare, polio-like neurological condition that affects mostly children. Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare is ready to be an important center for AFM care and rehabilitation when the outbreak is set to peak this fall.
Aug. 7, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Virtual Appointments Break Down Barriers for Families

When virtual appointments were first proposed, we were appreciative but admittedly skeptical about how that would work. But having recently made the shift over to virtual appointments, we’ve been pleasantly surprised by how seamless the transition was. Naturally, there were some growing pains in the beginning, but there were many benefits that emerged over time.
Jul. 21, 2020
Disability Advocacy

When Life Hands You COVID-19…Make a Virtual Lemonade Stand

Joe Carr is a socially connected doer and thinker so a worldwide COVID-19 pandemic was not about to stop him from launching his 5th annual Lemonade Stand Fundraiser for Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare. In fact, Joe and his team say in a strange twist COVID-19 might make this year of fund raising even more successful.
Jul. 16, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Every Day, Better and Stronger: Matthew’s Recovery from Traumatic Brain Injury

Matthew suffered a traumatic brain injury 15 years ago. After the treatment at Gillette that saved his life, he’s had a singular goal: To live every day, better and stronger. As he says, “It’s not about what I lost, it’s about what I’m getting back.”
Jul. 14, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Inimitable Avery: Relentless After Treatment for Scoliosis

"It was definitely a shock. I almost didn’t believe it at first. I’m a competitive athlete; I’d never really been hurt or sick in my entire life. I didn’t even know what scoliosis was." - Avery Wright
Jun. 30, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Bracing for Scoliosis with Kristin Smith, CO

Kristin Smith, CO, is the lead orthotist of the OPS spinal orthotics team, and has worked at Gillette for nearly 20 years. When it comes to scoliosis, her relationship with the condition is both professional, as well as deeply personal. Read our conversation with Kristin below.
Jun. 25, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Erika Comes Back After Spinal Fusion

"I realized, for the first time, that I was shooting straight. Due to my scoliosis, I'd been overcompensating." Erika, a basketball player, gained confidence after surgery to correct her spinal curvature.
Jun. 4, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Gillette Children’s Healthcare Press Brings the Personal and Medical to Parents

Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare has launched a new resource to help parents of children who have complex, rare or traumatic conditions. The first book released by the new Gillette Children’s Healthcare Press is Spastic Diplegia—Bilateral Cerebral Palsy and it’s written by Lily Collison, an Ireland-based author and the mother of a Gillette patient.
May. 28, 2020
Disability Advocacy

“Weird is a Pretty Good Description”: Graduating from High School During COVID-19

There are a lot of people who are missing everyday aspects of a normal life right now. There are also countless young adults that are missing out on defining milestones like high school graduation, that before COVID-19, many of us took for granted. We recently spoke with two high school seniors who've been treated at Gillette throughout the course of their lives about how they're doing during this time.
May. 21, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Staying Safe by Keeping Things Clean

In the wake of the outbreak of COVID-19, we’ve heard countless stories about the brave medical professionals who are working on the frontlines of this crisis. Of course, it takes many individuals working in close concert with one another to make a hospital run, and it’s impossible to do any type of medical work that’s safe in an environment that isn’t sterile. In a time where handwashing and keeping things clean is very much top of mind, we thought it’d be good to consult the experts in such matters; the individuals who are keeping Gillette’s patients, families and staff members safe by keeping things clean.
Apr. 24, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Creating Community from a Distance

During this time of isolation, everyone is looking for ways to stay in touch with the people and causes they care about. In the weeks ahead, we’ll be exploring new ways to connect with one another while also staying safe. Learn five easy ways you can support Gillette and create community together, from a distance.
Mar. 26, 2020
Disability Advocacy

COVID-19 – Staying Safe Without Going Stir-Crazy

Many of us will be spending more time at home during the outbreak of COVID-19 (the disease caused by coronavirus), and for those with young children, you may have to get a bit creative to keep them entertained during this time. To try to help, we sat down with the Child and Family Services Team at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare to get some tips on ways you can practice proper social distancing, stay home and safe without going completely stir-crazy in the coming weeks.
Mar. 19, 2020
Disability Advocacy

COVID-19: Tips on Prevention

You’ve likely been hearing quite a bit about COVID-19—or coronavirus—in the news lately. Our medical staff at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare wants to help our patients and families better understand COVID-19 and how to stay healthy and prevent the spread of the illness.
Mar. 6, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Here’s Why Gillette is the Best at Providing Cerebral Palsy Care

For 123 years the doctors, nurses and employees at Gillette have worked every day to provide the very best care for all children. This dedication has led to treatments and outcomes that have influenced cerebral palsy care worldwide. 
Feb. 28, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Puppies with Purpose: The Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy

“It’s just so wonderful to watch these children get better. It’s also very rewarding to see the connection that forms between the children and my dogs. They become friends.”
Feb. 24, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Kids Demonstrate Their CAN During Adaptive Ski Day

If you are a child who has a disability or complex medical condition, you may think the thrill of downhill skiing isn’t possible. “Not so!” say patients at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare.
Feb. 19, 2020
Disability Advocacy

Sophia Soars: Family Makes 700-Mile Journey to Treat Daughter’s Cerebral Palsy

"Every step Sophia takes is a testament to the countless dedicated individuals who made it possible," says her mother, Susan Slinkard. Sophia and her family traveled from Arkansas to Minnesota for several major surgeries aimed at reducing Sophia's spasticity.
Jan. 16, 2020
Disability Advocacy
Gillette patient, James Bostic

Many the Miles: Deep Brain Stimulation Gives the Gift of a Son

As loud music filled the adjoining hallways near the Neurosciences unit at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, passersby could be forgiven if they were a bit confused. The atmosphere was festive and there was good reason for it. At long last, James Bostic, 17, was able to go home. He had been in the hospital for 15 months.
Dec. 2, 2019
Disability Advocacy

Holiday Travel Tips for Children Who Have Special Needs

Parents traveling with family members who have a disability or special need are often dealing with extra issues and concerns. During the holidays airports are crowded, security lines long and traffic is snarled. Preparation and knowledge are the keys to decreasing stress and getting rid of your bah humbug.
Nov. 25, 2019
Disability Advocacy

Gillette Assistance Program (GAP) Changes Lives

Nicole Leinonen says she’ll never forget the phone call that she says changed her life. “Every time I think of that phone call from Gillette telling me that I qualified for some financial assistance I get emotional. I’m amazed at how generous people are,” Nicole says. “The Gillette Assistance Program (GAP) means I can focus on Ella and her needs. I don’t have to be so stressed worrying about how, as a single parent, I can pay for her care.”
Nov. 7, 2019
Disability Advocacy

Dog Treats Mean Business for Teen Who Has CP

Learn about how Jennifer and her son Nick, a Gillette patient who has cerebral palsy and epilepsy, came up with an idea for a part-time business making dog treats and turned it into a reality that they hope will provide employment opportunities to other young adults who have disabilities.
Oct. 24, 2019
Disability Advocacy

A Promise to Her Dad Motivates Maria Renata

Seven-year-old Maria Renata Sanchez Diaz traveled 1,600 miles from her home in Mexico City to Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare as part of her plan to keep a promise to her dad.
Oct. 2, 2019
Disability Advocacy

Dear Theodora: One Family’s Cerebral Palsy Journey

There are few moments in life as exciting and anxiety inducing as the day you have your first child, but for Andrew Bailey and his wife, Amanda, things were a bit more complicated. Amanda was home in Connecticut getting ready for her baby shower. Andrew, a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, was in Seattle for an away game.
Oct. 1, 2019
Disability Advocacy

Back Pain in Children: Gillette Can Help! 

Back pain is more common in children than one might expect. In fact, by age 15, 30-50 percent of all children have had at least one episode of back pain! At Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, our team of internationally-recognized orthopedic experts work closely with many pediatric patients each year, helping them identify and treat their unexplained back pain.
Jul. 18, 2019
Disability Advocacy

Virtual Reality Bolsters Clinical Care at Gillette

The hospital can be a scary place for anyone, especially a child, and no matter how nice the staff is or how thoughtfully the clinical spaces are designed, it’s usually difficult for a patient to forget they’re in one. At Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, that’s no longer the case.
Jul. 17, 2019
Disability Advocacy

Taking Care of Yourself While Taking Care of Others

Being the caregiver for a patient or family member who has special needs can be very demanding. Preventing, as well as managing the effects of stress is something many healthcare providers are focusing on for their patients and for themselves.
Jun. 17, 2019
Disability Advocacy

Accessible Summer Fun For All

The therapeutic recreation specialists at Gillette can help plan family summer activities to make sure children who have mobility or health challenges can have fun in the sun.
Jun. 6, 2019
Disability Advocacy

The Long Way Round: A Look Back on my Treatment for Cerebral Palsy

When Jenna Robinson was born, she only weighed three pounds and doctors told her parents she’d never be a “rocket scientist.” Now 28, she holds a Master’s degree in social work and has dedicated her life to helping individuals lead more independent lives.
Mar. 27, 2019
Disability Advocacy
Wes running the bases during MN Twins game

Cerebral Palsy Won’t Slow Wes Down, He’s Unstoppable

Wes Jackson is a thoughtful, kind and inquisitive kid. He also has cerebral palsy, but he won't let that (or anything else for that matter) get in his way. Get to know Wes and his family, you'll be glad you did.
Mar. 21, 2019
Disability Advocacy

Therapeutic Recreation Provides Guidance for Activities for Children Who Have Disabilities

Rolling over, crawling. The first words, the first steps, the first bike ride. These actions seem small individually, but many serve as formative moments that represent individual progress. They’re the signs that we’re moving forward and the experiences we remember. However, for many of the patients and families at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, these milestones are often delayed—if they happen at all.
Feb. 24, 2019
Disability Advocacy
Aaron Huser, MD, Gillette orthopedic surgeon

Lengthening Limbs to Transform Lives: Gillette Welcomes Aaron Huser, DO

Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare has the largest collection of pediatric orthopedic surgeons in the Midwest and recently welcomed Aaron Huser, DO. Huser specializes in the care of limb deformities and deficiencies and is currently accepting patients.
Jan. 17, 2019
Disability Advocacy
Gillette patient, Kate Ketelhohn, who had limb lengthening procedure.

Limb-Lengthening and the Triumphant Life of Kate Ketelhohn

The day was Christmas Eve, the year was 2003 and the Ketelhohns were resting and watching a movie in their home near Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was an idyllic evening, but their youngest daughter, 8-month-old, Kate, had a slight fever. It was the type of malady that many children experience throughout their development. There was no reason to worry, until there was.
Jan. 9, 2019
Disability Advocacy
Cassidy getting ready to stand during Gopher volleyball game.

Cassidy CAN Stand and Cheer

Cassidy and her mom, Darcy, are two of the biggest fans of the University of Minnesota women's volleyball team. They're excited about the NCAA Division I women's volleyball tournament at Target Center in Minneapolis. While they're disappointed the Gophers will not appear in the NCAA tournament, they're proud of what the team accomplished this season. Cassidy has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and her limited use of her arms and legs means is can be difficult to stand and cheer for her team--until Gillette helped make her dream come true.
Dec. 7, 2018
Disability Advocacy
Gillette's Aerodigestive clinic care team members work with patients

First of Its Kind in the Metro—Aerodigestive Clinic Provides Coordinated, Convenient Care for Families

The human body is a miraculous makeup of coordinated and interconnected systems that, when operating properly, are a wonder to behold. But when things aren’t operating correctly, this interconnectedness can cause a whole host of complications. This issue is precisely why Gillette’s Aerodigestive Clinic was established last year.
Dec. 4, 2018
Disability Advocacy

Joe Mauer is More Than a Hometown Hero

Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare appreciates the support retiring Minnesota Twins first baseman, Joe Mauer and his wife, Maddie, have given us. To Gillette the Mauers are more than hometown heroes—they're family.
Nov. 12, 2018
Disability Advocacy

Bennett’s Story: Forming a Family and Spina Bifida

It’s funny, you never know at the time when you’re living the day that will change your life forever. But that’s what happened to me four years ago. I work in Community Engagement and Events for the Minnesota Twins and I was volunteering at an event Joe Mauer was hosting for Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, when I saw a little boy sitting by himself on the ground. I sat down next to him and he turned and said: “Hi, my name is Bennett and I love dinosaurs.”I fell in love on the spot.
Aug. 10, 2018
Disability Advocacy

Hope Brings Her Family “Full Circle” at Gillette

Hope is many things, including an animal-lover, a peacemaker and a big sister. She's also a longtime Gillette patient, where she receives treatment for multiple pterygium syndrome, a condition she shares with her dad.
Jul. 31, 2018
Disability Advocacy
Group photo of Gillette patients at TCF field during Mauer event

Sports, Fundraising and Fun at the Mauer and Friends Kids Classic

It's rare for a singular event to bring so much joy and meaning to so many individuals and organizations, but Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare's celebration of the 3rd Annual Mauer and Friends Kids Classic, did just that. The event took place on a perfect, June day, and 25 Gillette patients and their families had the experience of a lifetime down on the grass of Target Field.
Jun. 26, 2018
Disability Advocacy
Old hockey photo of Landon

Letters to My Landon: A Message to My Son

Every now and again, I write a new letter to my son, Landon. It’s my testament to him. To who he was, to who he is, and to who he could someday be.
Jun. 3, 2018
Disability Advocacy
Gillette patients gather in support of state park legislation

Legislation Would Make Minnesota State Parks Accessible to All

The majority of Minnesota’s state parks have key park amenities that remain inaccessible or only partially accessible to people who have disabilities. See how Gillette is working to change that by supporting proposed legislation that would fund important updates.
May. 8, 2018
Disability Advocacy

Title of ‘Minnesota Miss Amazing’ Gives Katie Allee Platform for Advocacy

On April 7th, 2018, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Minnesota Miss Amazing pageant. I was lucky enough to learn about this event from a friend who became involved in the past, and had expressed that the event was an awesome experience for her and her family.
Apr. 24, 2018
Disability Advocacy

Lincoln is Going to be Lincoln: How I Learned To Stop Worrying About My Son With Special Needs

Parents worry. Parents worry about their child’s growth, development, friends, school, future. It’s a universal truth, baked into our biology. When a child is diagnosed with special needs, however, a parent’s worry can snowball into anxiety. That's what happened to me, but here's what I did.
Apr. 12, 2018
Disability Advocacy

Project SEARCH Helps Students Who Have Disabilities Transition from Classroom to Workplace

Project SEARCH combines classroom instruction and career exploration through hands-on training for students who have disabilities. This is Gillette’s first year participating in the program, through a partnership with the White Bear Lake Area Schools, and the interns have progressed in leaps and bounds.
Apr. 4, 2018
Disability Advocacy
Gillette patient Louie Romero posing in the skyway

It’s Not a Career, It’s a Calling: Bringing My Son Home

Louie Romero is a smiley kid that simply can’t help the fact that he is irrepressibly charming. It's Louie's personality that makes an impression when you meet him. The fact that he is in a wheelchair and has cerebral palsy ranks much lower on the list.
Mar. 12, 2018
Disability Advocacy

Gillette Helps Athletes with Paralympic Dreams

Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare provides support and resources to help kids achieve their athletic goals. Our therapeutic recreation specialists take pride in helping kids improve their strength and flexibility while having the fun experience of playing sports.
Mar. 9, 2018
Disability Advocacy

Minnesota at its Best, Sled Hockey for Children who Have Disabilities

You know, there might be nothing more Minnesotan than lacing up a pair of skates and heading out to the rink. “You bet, you’d better believe it,” says Tony Lang of Loretto, Minnesota. “I grew up playing hockey my whole life. It’s a family tradition. In fact, when we had kids I built a rink in our backyard.”
Feb. 22, 2018
Disability Advocacy
Gillette patient Kaidyn with therapy dog at Gillette.

Help Fund Animal-Assisted Therapy at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare

“I don’t think it would surprise anyone to learn that a lot of children love dogs,” says Emily DeBreto. “While we’ve had volunteers bring in therapeutic dogs at the hospital for comfort, we wanted to get our dogs more involved with the actual functional aspects of the therapy we’re providing.”
Nov. 16, 2017
Disability Advocacy

It’s Not Just Bumps and Bruises: A Letter on Bullying from an Anonymous Mom

An anonymous mom opens up about her son, bullying, the many lessons she's learned raising a child who has a disability--and the one lesson she'd like to pass on.
Oct. 25, 2017
Disability Advocacy

Driven by Compassion, Gillette Nurse Leads by Example for 40 Years

Becky Hamilton can’t help but get a bit emotional as she prepares to hang up her scrubs after 40 years as a Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare nurse. She’ll freely tell you that when you devote so much of your life to an organization, your colleagues become like family. This goes for your patients as well.
Oct. 10, 2017
Disability Advocacy

Why Medicaid Matters to my Family: Let’s Talk About it

Rebecca Pierce, the mother of a Gillette patient, speaks out about the importance of protecting Medicaid for children who have disabilities.
Sep. 26, 2017
Disability Advocacy

Katie Allee Goes to Washington: A National Advocate for Kids Who Have Disabilities

"This experience allowed me to advocate for the issues I care about to some of the most important people who can present my ideas on a larger scale," says Katie Allee. Learn about Katie's recent trip to D.C. and why she's passionate about being a voice for all children who have complex conditions.
Sep. 21, 2017
Disability Advocacy

Therapy Two-A-Days: Connor Tackles Recovery from Traumatic Brain Injury

Tall, red-haired and boisterous, it’s not a surprise to learn that Connor plays on the football team back in North Dakota, or that he’s pretty popular.
Sep. 5, 2017
Disability Advocacy

International Research Collaboration Between Hospitals Helps Treat Children Who Have Chronic Pain

Pain affects all aspects of life, but for many of us, it’s an abstract concept. But, for a moment, imagine what it would feel like to experience chronic pain for an entire month. Start with that, but now expand it out to a year—or maybe even, every day of your life.
Aug. 9, 2017
Disability Advocacy
Kelsey, leaning against wall after yoga practice

Kelsey Teaches Yoga, Defies Disability

Kelsey's attitude is so affecting, she says that most people don’t notice at first. Kelsey was born with a radial club hand, and her left arm is significantly shorter than her right. This means that when she’s instructing yoga—perhaps the most public of exercises—she’s essentially doing most of it, one-handed.
Jul. 28, 2017
Disability Advocacy

She’s Katie. It’s Not What She Has, It’s Who She Is

Katie Allee takes Advanced Placement classes. She’s 15, and she’s a straight-A student. Her mind? It’s all there, and she’ll tell you as much. But when it comes to her body physically, for much of her life, she’s had difficulty.
Jul. 10, 2017
Disability Advocacy

120 Years of Can at the Minnesota State Capitol

Gillette patients, families and employees joined together at the Minnesota State Capitol to mark our 120th anniversary. Check out photos of the celebration!
Apr. 26, 2017
Disability Advocacy

Celebrating Gillette Day at the Minnesota Capitol

On April 25, Gillette patients, families and staff will gather at the Minnesota State Capitol to kick off the hospital's 120th anniversary. See why advocating for Minnesota children who have complex conditions is important to Gillette.
Apr. 13, 2017
Disability Advocacy
Parent and child using Emojability keyboard app

Gillette Relaunches Ability-Themed Emoji App

To celebrate National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, Gillette is relaunching an updated version of its ability-themed emoji keyboard called Emojability.
Mar. 15, 2017
Disability Advocacy

Former British Royal Guard Sails Solo to Raise Funds for Gillette Kids

If you want to know how a former guard to the British Royal Family wound up racing his sailboat to help Minnesota children who have disabilities, follow along below.
Feb. 21, 2017
Disability Advocacy
Katie Wilkins, a Gillette physical therapist, is inspired by her patients, who successfully manage their juvenile arthritis.

Katie Wilkins Is Dedicated to Helping Kids Manage Pain

Meet Katie Wilkins, a Gillette physical therapist who is passionate about helping kids who have juvenile arthritis. Learn why she's being honored at the 2017 Walk to Cure Juvenile Arthritis.
Feb. 16, 2017
Disability Advocacy

Virtual Tour: New Entrance

Take a recently filmed Facebook LIVE virtual tour of our new valet entrance, check-in desk, guest services, waiting areas and more.
Feb. 8, 2017
Disability Advocacy
Gillette patient Mason with his dad on mission to see 500 bands.

Patient Embarks on Quest to See 500 Bands

Mason and his father Rich saw nearly 500 rock bands live in concert last year. They refused to let Mason's cerebral palsy get in the way of reaching their goal.
Jan. 9, 2017
Disability Advocacy
Relief, acceptance, confusion, connection, validation, belonging, denial, support

Learning Your Child Has a Disability

There are few things in life as overwhelming as learning your child has a disability. Accepting this and moving forward is a different process for every parent. We spoke with Gillette neuropsychologist Richard DiPrima, PsyD, and below he offers advice to help families navigate this emotional time.
Dec. 22, 2016
Disability Advocacy

Krista Horning Works at Gillette “To Give Back”

Krista Horning, a Gillette employee for nine years, hopes she's an inspiration to the patients she helps. That's because she's been a patient at Gillette since childhood. Meet Krista and learn why she loves working at Gillette.
Oct. 24, 2016
Disability Advocacy

Alexandra Redefines Perceptions

When Alexandra's mom started getting questions from other parents about Alexandra's condition, mother and daughter decided to help shift others' perceptions about disabilities. Learn how.
Sep. 15, 2016
Disability Advocacy
back to school photo of Avery

Avery’s Story: Becoming a Back-to-School Model

Avery, a sixth grader who has cerebral palsy, recently had the opportunity to showcase some of her favorite back-to-school fashions to thousands when she modeled for the Mall of America's 2016 Back to School Look Book. Learn how the experience helped build Avery's confidence and how care at Gillette has helped her thrive.
Sep. 7, 2016
Disability Advocacy

Mauer and Friends Kids Classic Connects Patients, Sports Stars

The Mauer and Friends Kids Classic united sports heroes and supporters of Gillette to improve the lives of kids who have disabilities and complex medical conditions. Minnesota Twins first-baseman Joe Mauer and his wife Maddie hosted the event at the Twins' Target Field.
Jun. 22, 2016
Disability Advocacy

From Minnesota to Alaska, Specialized Care Means Possibilities for Javier

Javier loves spending his summers in Alaska with his mom. But until recently, his family feared those visits might end. Learn how new technology is helping Javier continue his favorite summertime tradition.
Jun. 20, 2016
Disability Advocacy
Kids gather around baseball diamond for field of dreams game

Gillette Family Makes Field of Dreams a Reality

The Feyereisen family built a sandlot field in their backyard to inspire inclusiveness and teach kindness among their triplet sons, who have varying degrees of disabilities, and their friends. It's come to resemble a real-life "Field of Dreams."
May. 26, 2016
Disability Advocacy

Hunter Overcomes Bullying with a Little Help from His Friends

When Stacy Soman’s son Hunter started being bullied consistently last year, this question came up more and more. “When your kid starts coming home with bruises, it’s hard not to say: ‘You know what, maybe you should hit back, and they’ll leave you alone.’ Many children would take that advice, but not Hunter."
Apr. 15, 2016
Disability Advocacy
Mom and her daughter in the Gillette skyway

Sorting Through a Childhood Diagnosis: 5 Tips for Parents

Every parent wants their child to be healthy, but that isn’t always the case. The reality is that as many as one in about 325 parents will have a child who has a complex medical condition such as cerebral palsy, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC also says about one in six children will have some type of developmental disability.
Mar. 24, 2016
Disability Advocacy
moving forward - cerebral palsy

Infographic: Understanding Cerebral Palsy

March is cerebral palsy month – and March 25 is National CP Awareness Day. Take a moment to get information about the most common motor disorder. Remember that when a child is diagnosed, it doesn’t mean he or she can’t live a happy, fulfilling – and most important – meaningful life.
Mar. 9, 2016
Disability Advocacy

Twitter Chat Offers Insight Into Rare Diseases

Gillette participated in a Twitter chat hosted by ABC's Dr. Richard Besser on rare diseases as part of Rare Diseases Day. Gillette was one of the top chat influencers.
Mar. 2, 2016
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200 University Avenue East. St. Paul MN 55101
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