Alyssa from Taiwan

Gladney Superkids program is hopeful to travel to Taiwan in 2023. Please watch here for updates. If interested in volunteering, email superkids@gladney.org. Updated March 2021: Alyssa joined our most recent virtual Superkids trip and we are very excited to announce that we have much more information to share with you! Don't forget to tune in for our Facebook live presentation of her on Tuesday, March 23! Alyssa was a sleepy girl at the beginning of our Zoom call but as her caregivers slowly nudged and called her name, she began to wake up. Two and a half-year-old Alyssa is not speaking, but we learned from her caregivers that she is a cuddly child who loves being held. She will also smile when she hears her name called. Alyssa likes listening to music as it helps to calm her, along with additional cuddles when she is upset. Alyssa seems curious in new environments. She doesn't interact much with other children due to her mobility. Instead of playing with toys, she would rather be rocked and listen to music. Alyssa's diet consists of her formula which she consumes through a nasal feeding tube. Alyssa is diagnosed with global developmental delays, hydrocephalus and seizure disorder. She resides in a nursing home and receives 30 minutes of occupational and physical therapy each week. We have much more information on Alyssa so please contact superkids@gladney.org for more information! Also, be sure to join our Taiwan Waiting Child Advocacy group on Facebook to see her updated photos and videos! Could your family be the one she needs? Original post: Meet sweet Alyssa. Alyssa is 2 and a half years old. She has a quiet personality and likes to be cuddled. She has a ready smile and giggle, and rarely cries. Alyssa loves listening to music and enjoys sounds spoken to her. Alyssa is able to turn her head side to side while lying on her stomach and can raise her head and chest momentarily with forearm support. Recently she has been attempting to lift her body off the bed by moving her shoulders. You go Alyssa! She is also able to grasp objects and use her hands and fingers in play. Alyssa has been diagnosed with global developmental delays, and currently takes medication for seizers. It is advised that Alyssa be provided physical, occupational, and speech language therapy as she continues to develop. Alyssa is currently fed through an NG tube, tolerates it well, and has no digestive system disfunction. She has stable and deep sleep, typically more than 8 hours each night! Her physical activity is limited but is able to sit in a baby walker with additional support. Alyssa’s profile contains a robust developmental assessment which includes medical recommendations on training plans, at home rehabilitation exercises, and tips/tricks to help her grow and develop in the future. If you are interested in learning more about Alyssa, please contact superkids@gladney.org for more information! Also, be sure to join our Taiwan Waiting Child Advocacy group on Facebook to see more of her photos and videos!