When Kai Bradley was six years old, he began struggling to walk and use his left hand. His family’s lives were turned upside down when he was diagnosed with a benign mass in his brain that required immediate surgery. After successful brain surgery at Broward Health Medical Center, Kai still faced many hurdles, including having to relearn basic activities like walking.
“It was heartbreaking for him to lose his abilities,” his father, Glenn Bradley, recalled. “I remember one day he told me, ‘Dad, I just have to get better. I can’t stay like this.’”
Fortunately, thanks to the active support of his family and a multidisciplinary team of physical, occupational and speech therapists at Broward Health Coral Springs, Kai has made a remarkable recovery.
A Continuum of Care
“Kai’s case was complicated, but we’re committed to supporting our patients and their families through a comprehensive continuum of care,” said Susie Pomerantz, regional rehabilitation manager at Broward Health Coral Springs. “We believe in the power of a team approach, with the family as an essential part of the healing journey.”
At first, Kai was unable to walk independently. Pediatric physical therapist Lora Cochran tailored his therapy sessions to help him rebuild strength, mobility and confidence.
“Kai was so motivated,” she said. “He came to every session with a smile on his face and a positive attitude. It was clear he was ready to do whatever it took, and he did just that.”
As Kai progressed, occupational therapist Daniela Ortiz stepped in to focus on improving Kai’s cognitive abilities, including memory, coordination and executive functioning. “Kai was always excited to be challenged,” Ortiz said. “His positive energy and his family’s support made a huge difference in his recovery.”
Kai’s family was there every step of the way. His dad attended every therapy session, consistently reinforcing the strategies and exercises at home.
“We saw a 100% improvement in Kai’s targeted goals,” Ortiz said. “It was inspiring to watch him grow stronger and more confident every day.”
Kai also worked with speech pathologist Amber Macknofsky, after developing a stutter following surgery. “Kai had trouble with fluency, ‘TH’ sounds and auditory processing,” Macknofsky said. “His mind also tended to work faster than his mouth, so we focused on helping him slow things down.”
Macknofsky described Kai as a friendly, motivated child who made great progress thanks to his positive attitude and determination and to the personal support and nurturing of his team.
Back to Being a Kid
Today, Kai is back to his energetic, playful self. He’s walking, running and enjoying the activities he loves. His parents are filled with gratitude and awe at the progress he has made.
“We’re so thankful for the care Kai received at Broward Health Coral Springs,” his mother Maribell Cruz said. “The therapists at Broward Health really gave him the tools he needed to get there.”
For more information on Broward Health’s rehabilitation and physical therapy services, visit BrowardHealth.org/Rehab. Call 954-344-3180 to reach our rehabilitation experts at Broward Health Coral Springs
