Meet Matt Koropoulos
Published: Monday, November 24, 2008
About two years ago, Matt couldn’t walk, talk or use sign language.
Born with cerebral palsy, Matt also has an extremely rare multi-systemic disorder that affects his respiratory system, his ability to swallow and his growth. At age 11, he was the size of a 5-year-old. He has endured multiple surgeries, is fed through a stomach tube and is considered legally blind.
Before he came to Crotched Mountain, Matt spent most of his time at home, too weak to get through three hours of public school. No one was even sure Matt could make it through a whole-day program. But his parents felt he needed preparation for life and Crotched Mountain was the place.
Matt’s parents had a vision for their son. They hoped he would to be able to use a walker in addition to his wheelchair. They wanted him to develop a form of communication that others can understand. They wanted a clearer picture of what Matt understands of the world around him. Most of all, they wanted to see Matt spend more time with other children and adults.
“It’s not just one person at Crotched Mountain, it’s a whole team,” Matt’s mom smiles as she describes Matt’s pediatrician, his one-to-one aide, classroom teacher, occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech-language pathologist, case manager and vision specialist. “I wouldn’t want him to be anywhere else.”
Matt showed everyone that he could thrive at Crotched Mountain.
At first, he communicated only through facial expression. Now he has a Big Mack communication device that allows him to say hello and participate in conversation. He used to not initiate social contact. Now he delights in pushing a single button that activates recorded messages. He is starting to sign and he is beginning to vocalize. Best of all, his new accomplishments have helped him make friends.
Matt can now grasp a toothbrush and bring it to his mouth. He rides an adaptive bike through the hallways and he is beginning to walk. Using a walker, he travels 300 feet every day from his classroom to the therapy department. He participates in a full day of academics, therapy and recreation five days a week. His favorite subject is music. He is enjoying life, and it shows. His face lights up in the classroom, during occupational therapy, and in the pool doing aquatic exercises. He and his therapist look like they’re having fun. And they are.
“Crotched Mountain is a miracle mountain,” his mom exclaims with a smile. “Crotched Mountain believes in our children and because they support those beliefs with professional staff, academic versatility and social opportunity, our children can achieve more than anyone ever thought.”