Michael

In Michael’s world, doing the everyday is sometimes impossible. While he has grown more confident in utilizing social skills and maintain conversations, Michael still struggles with understanding the social queues of those around him.

As a baby, Michael wasn’t hitting the developmental milestones. While he received therapy, it wasn’t answering the question of why he was not on track with his peers.

Facing a long list of possible reasons why, Michael was diagnosed with Autism. With the team at Cardinal Glennon, Michael is overcoming the obstacles that make social interaction difficult.

When you meet Michael, it doesn’t take long for you to see what an amazing young man he is and what makes him so special. His exuberance for life is uplifting and motivating.
CMN Hospitals Funds in Action:  CMN Hospitals funds support the Knights of Columbus Developmental Center at Cardinal Glennon where Michael was diagnosed and receives therapy.

January 2023 Update:

Michael is a Junior in high school and is out on the road as a permit driver!  He is an avid Lego builder, collector of YuGiOh cards, and master reader (who is at the library at least twice a week!). Michael enjoys hanging out with his friends and playing video games. Michael’s primary diagnoses are Autism, Scoliosis, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. He continues to receive care from physicians and clinicians at both Cardinal Glennon and St. Louis Children’s. After wearing his back brace for nearly two years, Michael works with a physical therapist to keep his core strong and his spine in good alignment. He is also a graduate of the PEERS social skills program at the Knights of Columbus Developmental Center and uses the acquired skills in his daily interactions with others.