The Buena Vista Regional Healthcare Foundation donated specialized equipment to the Buena Vista Regional Medical Center’s Rehab Services department, making an incredible impact on pediatric rehabilitation. These new tools are designed to help children gain independence and reach important developmental milestones.
One of the items donated are feeder seats, which provide critical head and body support for children. These seats enable therapists to focus on activities like eating, reaching, grasping, and developing head and eye movements.
“Without these seats, the therapist’s hands are fully occupied supporting the child,” explained Grace Weiland, BVRMC Physical Therapist. “Now, we can use our hands to guide the child’s movements and help them build new skills.”
Another addition includes switches and switch-adapted toys. These devices allow children to activate toys and other tools with minimal pressure, using a hand, foot, elbow, or other body parts. One standout item is a switch-adapted disco ball, which is particularly effective for children with low vision.
“These switches empower children to control their play activities independently, building confidence and engagement,” Weiland noted.
The Foundation also provided a stair slide; a piece of equipment that has quickly become a favorite among young patients. “The slide has been a huge motivator during therapy,” Weiland shared. “It not only makes therapy fun but also helps kids develop core strength and motor skills they can use on the playground with their families and classmates.”
The Buena Vista Regional Healthcare Foundation’s generosity ensures children in the community have access to innovative and effective therapy tools.
To learn more about the Foundation or the pediatric therapy services at BVRMC, please contact Katie Schwint, Executive Director of Community Development at 712.213.8601.
