Six year old Skye is described by her mum Vanessa as a little “adrenaline junky” who loves to be in amongst the action. Skye loves to be pushed on the swings as high as possible, she loves swimming, playing with her musical toys and one of her favourite things is having afternoon tea with her bestie.
Skye was born with a genetic disorder that is so rare, she is one of a kind in the whole world. Skye has had regular Speech Therapy sessions for over two years to support her with her feeding and communication. Skye’s Dad Owen says “Skye has really exceeded all of our expectations with how she has progressed”.
Over the past two years, Skye has been working on developing strength in the tiny muscles needed for eating solid foods and for speech. Skye is now able to happily munch away on a carrot stick, eat or suck her favourite fruits and drink from a sippy cup.
Skye has been using her switch devices and PODD books to communicate her needs at home and at school but because she’s done so well over the past two years to build the strength in the tiny muscles needed for speech Vanessa says that “Skye is really keen to talk, she’s ready to go!”
In recent therapy sessions Skye has been working towards verbal speech using a method called PROMPT, where Skye is supported to move her jaw, lips and tongue to create specific sounds. Skye will watch and try to imitate verbal speech.
Skye is able to say “Mum” and is working on “Dad”. Vanessa says “Skye constantly surprises us with what she can achieve. Just the other day she put in a great effort singing along to a nursery rhyme. She was super proud of herself!”
We love your work Skye. Keep reaching for the stars!
