Immy Synk is making incredible strides in her health journey thanks to dedicated physical therapists who helped her mark an amazing milestone.
At the Achievement Centers for Children in Westlake, Immy Synk, a three-year-old, shines with her bright smile during therapy sessions, embodying determination and perseverance. This upbeat demeanor conceals a challenging journey and a mother’s unwavering quest for solutions.
Concerns surfaced for Beth Sync early on when Immy didn’t meet typical developmental milestones such as rolling over or sitting up by nine months. Despite multiple medical assessments showing no issues, doctors downplayed their worries. It wasn’t until right before Immy turned three that they received a definitive diagnosis: Angelman syndrome, a rare neurogenetic condition leading to significant developmental delays.
The diagnosis brought forth uncertainties about Immy’s future abilities like walking and talking, prompting a wave of emotions for the family. The road ahead seemed daunting, but with the support of the community and dedicated professionals at the center, they faced this new chapter head-on.
That’s when the Achievement Centers for Children (ACC) stepped in. Through their two-week intensive therapy clinic, Immy began working several hours daily with dedicated specialists. Physical therapist April Nesbit focused on building the foundational skills necessary for independent standing and walking.
The team’s dedication and Immy’s determination recently paid off in a moment Beth describes as almost surreal. “I feel like I almost blacked out when it was happening, like just the joy,” Beth recalls of watching her daughter take her first independent steps. “But I knew she could do it, you know, like deep down in my heart.”
For Nesbit, who has been by Immy’s side throughout her journey, the milestone was equally emotional. “I could tear up just even talking about it now,” she says. “My favorite part of this job is just being able to share these moments with the families. And seeing Immy take steps for the first time, it’s magical.”
The impact of Immy’s journey extends far beyond her physical achievements. Her mother reflects on the profound lessons her daughter teaches about resilience and joy: “Immy can’t do the most basic things and yet she’s so happy and she’s so loving. She can teach all of us a lot about what’s truly important in life.”
Beth adds, with evident emotion, “I feel very privileged that I get to be her mom and witness that firsthand.”
Through Immy’s story, we’re reminded that sometimes the biggest victories come in the smallest steps, and that progress – no matter how measured – is worth celebrating.
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