Levi is on his own timeline. Those are the words of his mother Ivana. Born by emergency C-section at 24 weeks and weighing 1.5 pounds, Levi was in the neonatal ICU for 112 days.

It was three weeks before Ivana could hold her newborn son. After severe brain bleeds and not being able to breathe on his own, Levi developed hydrocephalus and was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy with severe global developmental delays.

But, you should see Levi now!  At two and a half years old, Levi is all smiles and a happy little boy. He has a great time riding Boog during his physical therapy treatments using hippotherapy with his therapist Matt. Levi responds well to Matt and while riding syncs with Boog’s rhythmic gait causing him to be peaceful, relaxed, focused, and “in the moment” during his ride.

Levi started taking small steps four months ago and now, with assistance, is walking and using the stairs.  He can now get up from the floor to a standing position by himself. Becoming more independent has opened up a new world for Levi and given him confidence that is impacting everything he does. He had difficulty swallowing, but now his sensory triggers are disappearing and he is eating more food. He is mimicking words and sounds, beginning to speak, and becoming more social.

Ivana, a former real estate/marketing executive, says she never would have imagined that this would be her new world. As difficult as this journey is, this is the most important experience of her life. She is Levi’s person and he is hers.

In spite of a network of other mothers in similar situations, Ivana says it is lonely being a mother of a child with special needs. She continues, “Only other mothers with children with special needs can understand what it is like to be on this vulnerable journey. There is no tool to tell me what to do.  I have learned not to compare Levi with other children. Levi is on his own timeline and will hit milestones when he is ready; it makes him who he is. He has had many surgeries and therapies and has come a long way. It’s all so amazing; I am so proud of him.”, Ivana said.

“As his sidewalker, Levi and I bond over something special and unique, there is nothing else like it.  Being involved in his therapy is something I do for myself. Matt is a huge blessing and helps me look at the big picture and gives me confidence. Shea is a beautiful, outdoor, liberating break to feel free and comfortable.  We feel safe and supported. Everyone at Shea has become our family. They cheer for Levi’s accomplishments and want only the best for us.”