Meet Matias

The financial assistance program at CC4C helps children like Matias. Matias is a happy, loving and once “active and normal” 15 year old. After a knee surgery following an accident, he suffered a severe brain injury leaving him unable to talk, walk, or move independently. Matias has scoliosis, involuntary movements, cramps and tremors. Although he needs help for almost everything, Matias’ cognitive abilities are intact. It is unclear what caused the brain injury and the complex set of symptoms leaves his brain injury undiagnosed.

Matias needs multiple therapies to improve. His recommended rehabilitation program includes speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy three times per week. He needs craniosacral therapy, Feldenkrais Method therapy, and chiropractic once per week. Acupuncture has also been recommended.This intense therapy regimen is helping Matias on his road to recovery and each therapy session improves the quality of his life. His motor skills have improved: he is able to grasp a glass of juice or water, put it in his mouth and swallow without spilling. He is trying to say some words, and he can stand for a few moments. Therapy treatments greatly improve Matias’ sleep which positively affects his emotional well-being and ability to learn.

Before and after Occupational Therapy:

Matias cooked and ate spaghetti!!!

Matias’ treatment is expensive. Insurance only covers part of the therapy costs and out-of-pocket costs for his family can easily exceed $20,000 per year. Matias joined the CC4C family through their Statewide Financial Assistance program. This program reimburses families for out-of-pocket medical expenses up to $5,000 per year.

Full recovery is an enormous goal, says his mother, but Matias’ success in therapy gives great hope to his family and friends. CC4C is proud to walk along-side Matias on his path to healing.