Changing the Lives of Children Just Like Lola
Lola Savage took her parents’, Jordan and Paula, lives by storm when she entered the world in February 2021 during a blizzard. Lola’s mother, Paula, experienced a difficult pregnancy and realized something wasn’t quite right when she didn’t feel Lola moving around much. After some scans, Lola was diagnosed in utero with arthrogryposis, a rare condition that is commonly associated with joint contractures and lack of movement due to low muscle tone. In order to limit further contractures Lola was delivered early.
After multiple surgeries for club feet correction, tethered chord, hip dislocation and congenital cataracts, the Savages found out through genetic research that Lola has a mutation of her bicd2 gene – an even rarer form of spinal muscular atrophy.
As any parents would, the Savages set out to find the best possible options for Lola moving forward. She began receiving therapy at Associates in Pediatric Therapy (APT) located on Masonic Homes Kentucky’s Louisville Campus and soon learned about Sproutlings Pediatric Day Care & Preschool at Kosair for Kids Center.
“Because they are both located on the Louisville Campus, Lola’s APT therapists visit her weekly at Sproutlings,” said Jordan, Lola’s dad. “Each classroom has a dedicated nurse and I cannot express the sense of security and confidence this gives us knowing she is well cared for.”
It was also important to the Savages that Lola have the ability to interact with typical children early on in her development.
The Savages believe this integration has helped Lola develop much quicker cognitively and emotionally. With Lola’s disease being as rare as it is, the Savages do not have a blueprint for her life. “We aren’t sure what the future holds for her,” said Jordan. “Sproutlings however is a known, constant presence in her life and a place we can count on.”
Located on Masonic Homes Kentucky’s Louisville Campus, Sproutlings is the only Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) program of its kind in the region fully integrating medically fragile children, with traditional day care and preschool services for children without special needs. Sproutlings is possible through the support of Kosair for Kids and donors.
