Bonnie's Story

Bonnie was ready to eat on her own. Her hands just needed a little help.

At UPMC Hanover Pediatric Rehab, a donor-funded item that cost less than $20 made all the difference. With the support of the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, Bonnie received bamboo arm braces and specialized utensils designed to support her wrists and build confidence with everyday movements.

Before that, her mom had tried flexible utensils at home, but Bonnie would not use them. “She has a hard time with her wrists,” her mom shared. “Once we got these, she could push them against her high chair and pick them up herself. That changed everything.”

With the right tools in hand, Bonnie began eating independently for the first time. Soon, she was using all the different spoons and forks at home. “Once she sees she can do something, she takes off,” her mom said. “She’s very smart and determined.”

Her progress did not go unnoticed.

According to Stacie James, Program Director for UPMC Hanover Pediatric Rehab, Bonnie’s occupational therapist shared that she is now using her utensils independently and is ahead of typical developmental milestones. “She makes hard work fun,” Stacie said. “Bonnie has a fantastic work ethic.”

For Bonnie’s family, the impact went beyond therapy. “We’re a bigger family, and that extra help mattered,” her mom explained. “When you have four kids and you’re on a limited budget, even $15 or $20 makes a difference. These little things help Bonnie reach her next milestone, and I don’t think people always realize how important that is.”

When you give in honor of a caregiver, your generosity ensures children like Bonnie receive the tools they need to thrive, regardless of financial barriers. Small gifts fund thoughtful solutions that bring dignity, confidence, and hope into every patient’s day and into the hands of the caregivers who make progress possible.