Caiden is a bright, determined student at the Henry Viscardi School whose spirit outshines the challenges of his disability. Born with a rare orthopedic disability that affects his growth, hearing, and vision, Caiden has grown academically and socially with the support of his teachers, therapists, nurses, and the Viscardi community.
Since getting hearing aids, with the assistance of Viscardi staff Caiden is making great progress with his language and communication skills. He even engages conversationally now—asking others how they are and sharing news about his own life.
Caiden’s confidence has blossomed too. He mastered driving his first power chair and now navigates the school on his own, heading independently to classes, therapies, and the medical suite. He’s thriving academically, grasping new math concepts, learning new words, and eagerly sharing new interests. He’s also thriving socially. “We love his experience at Viscardi,” his mom shared. “He has friends in all age groups. It functions not only as a school, but as a family.”
Best of all, she sees that her son is living a full childhood. “When you have a child with a significant disability, you’re always concerned about them having the experiences a non-disabled child has, but Caiden has not missed a beat. He has sports, friends, and all the tools he needs at Henry Viscardi School.”
Caiden loves being at school—truly loves it. “Some children don’t want to go to school,” continued his mom, “but he wants to stay until whenever… participating in afterschool activities like Friday Night Recreation with his friends.” He has become more willing to try new things, advocate for himself, and take on new challenges. He now competes independently in Viscardi’s annual wheelchair basketball tournament, an experience he and his family take great pride in.
For his mother, Viscardi provides something priceless: peace of mind. “I know I can send Caiden to school with complete peace of mind,” she said.
Check out this video to see how Caiden has grown at Viscardi.