Category Archives: Uncategorized

Touching the Lives of Our Special Kids Through Animal Play

June 21, 2015 Leah Findel Back

Animals have provided therapy to humans for hundreds of years, even if we may not have been aware of it. Domesticated animals and household pets bring joy to our lives. Service animals assist those with physical impairments or emotional challenges and horses have therapeutic value to many people as well. For children who suffer from Cerebral Palsy playing with animals provides many benefits and can really touch their lives in profound ways.

Animals can provide a sense of security to a child with CP. This companionship can make them feel less alone and isolated. The relationship they develop through play results in a strong bond that can positively impact both the child’s physical and emotional development. Not only that, it’s a fun diversion that can let the child forget about the challenges they face in their lives. Animal play can also help the relieve stress that accompanies physical impairments.

Playing with animals can help children with CP develop and exercise muscles and work on coordination so they can perform physical tasks better. It can help them emotionally through the connection and bond they form with animals. Playing with or petting a dog or cat, brushing fur, riding a horse, these activities help develop the senses as well as visual and spatial relationships. Service animals also assist children with mobility, alerting parents to seizures that can occur during the night and helping them become more independent.

Animal play is an important part of any child’s development, but for children with special needs this relationship provides many extra benefits that help them overcome the unique challenges they have been presented in life.

New Tax-Friendly Savings Plan for Families of Children with Disabilities

May 12, 2015 Joan Reffner Back

The Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, known as the ABLE Act, was designed to better help families care for family members with disabilities. The bill, signed into law by President Obama, allows families to create tax-free savings accounts in order to help them finance the costs incurred when caring for family members with special needs. ABLE is similar to educational savings plans that allow families to save money for college tuition. It is estimated by the National Disability Institute that there are 58 million individuals with disabilities in the US and ABLE will help them save money should they qualify for an account.

Once ABLE is fully enacted, families will be able to save money in accounts without having to pay taxes on the earnings. The way the previous law was set up, there was a limit on the amount that families could accrue in savings before losing certain federal benefits. Typically, if a family saved more than $2,000 in a savings account they were at risk of losing public benefits like SSI and Medicaid. This discouraged them from saving for future medical expenses. The new law will remove this obstacle so parents can deal with the long-term healthcare needs of their children.

While the law may eventually differ by state, the plan will cover any child that was disabled before the age of 26 and will not affect Medicaid eligibility. For parents of children with disabilities like cerebral palsy, this will help them plan for future care which can include expenses like housing, transportation, assistive technology, personal support services and even legal fees.

5th Fred J Epstein International Medical Symposium
Dead Sea, Israel March 2012

Tikvah Layeled Proudly Sponsoring 6th Fred J. Epstein International Symposium on New Horizons in Pediatric Neurology, Neurosurgery and Neurofibromatosis

February 26, 2015 admin Back

4th International Medical Medical Symposium of New Horizons Eilat Israel 2009l

NEW YORK, Feb 5, 2015 – Israel’s leading cerebral palsy education and treatment center for children, Tikvah Layeled, has a distinguished history of supporting pioneering research in the realm of pediatric neurological conditions. This year, the center is generously contributing to the 6^th Fred J. Epstein International Symposium, where some of the world’s foremost clinicians and therapists will gather to share new findings and spark fresh insights. The symposium runs from March 22 through 26 at the Isrotel King Solomon Hotel in Eilat.

The symposium program includes seven workshops covering major research areas in pediatric neurology and related fields. On March 25, attendees will focus their attention on cerebral palsy and spasticity, with presentations and discussions on topics ranging from the causes and treatments for cerebral palsy to the potential role of alternative medicine.

Tzvi and Shaindel Breitstein founded Tikvah Layeled in 1982 after realizing the inadequacy of most healthcare facilities to truly meet the needs of their son Yoel, who had been born with spastic cerebral palsy. From those humble beginnings, the center now occupies an entire building in central Jerusalem and serves more than 400 children and young adults every year. Plans are underway for the construction of a state-of-the-art campus that will enable Tikvah Layeled to significantly expand its reach, improving the quality of life for even more children.

Tikvah Layeled’s services include individual and group therapy for families, specialized training for parents and caregivers, and a 24-hour helpline. The center’s educational program is fully accredited and consists of reading, writing, math, Jewish studies and computer training. Remedial courses are made available to students with learning disabilities. Life skills and vocational training courses prepare young adults to be happy, fulfilled and independent in daily life.

Sponsorship of academic medical conferences is just one facet of the good work that Tikvah Layeled is doing on behalf of the cerebral palsy community. More information about the center’s ongoing mission is available on the Tikvah Layeled website www.Tikvahlayeled.org/about

Mayor of Jerusalem Praises Tikvah Layeled Foundation

February 26, 2015 admin Back

Tikvah Layeled Foundation in Jerusalem, the educational & rehabilitation center for children with cerebral palsy (CP), recently installed a brand new wheelchair ramp to serve handicapped students coming in and out of school every day.

Nir Barkat, mayor of Jerusalem paid a high profile visit to Tikvah Layeled to participate in the dedication of the new ramp. The mayor was given a detailed tour of the entire school and met with staff and students alike. He was visibly moved by the astounding dedication of the staff towards the students. Wherever he went he saw teachers and therapists going about their important work with a sense of urgency and commitment that is truly unique to Tikvah Layeled. But even more pronounced, was his reaction to his meeting with the students themselves.

The mayor made the rounds around the school and repeatedly stopped to converse with the disabled children. The mayor expressed his surprise at the relative ease with which the students interacted and said he was profoundly touched by their innocent and pure humanity. The children, on their part, where thrilled by the opportunity to spend time with such an important personage. Before leaving, the mayor spoke briefly to the educational and medical staff about the important role Tikvah Layeled plays in the city of Jerusalem.

Mayor of Jerusalem in a classroom at Tikvah Layeled

“Tikvah Layeled elevates the state of our entire city. This institution gives pride to Jerusalem and thus grants it the appropriate title of ‘Jerusalem of High’, because it encompasses all the wonderful aspects that are absolutely crucial to cater to the very specific needs of these special students,” he said with obvious emotion. “The perfect synthesis of special education and medical and physical therapy is simply astounding! To have such a diverse body of students and staff under one roof; chareidim, national-religious and secular – it is no wonder that parents are clamoring to secure their child in this wonderful institution.” The visit left a deep impression on the entire staff and student body and left them inspired to continue their important work for the community.

To partner with Tikvah Layeled in their important work click here or visit: www.tikvahlayeled.org/donate.php

Mayor Nir Barkat with a student at Tikvah Layeled Foundation at a visit

Magic In Front Of Our Eyes at Recent Celebration of 3 Bar Mitzvah Boys

February 24, 2015 admin Back

Bar Mitzvah Celebration Tikvah Layeled — The 3 Boys at the Bar Mitzvah Celebration

Every Bar Mitzvah is a special occasion. But when Mesanel, Shimon, and Mordechai, students at Tikvah Layeled, celebrated their joint induction to adulthood, every guest sensed that this Bar Mitzvah was unique. The event was more than a rite of passage for the boys. It was a celebration of their individual journeys.

“Thirteen years ago, when my son was born, the doctors told me to put him into an institution,” said Giveret K., mother of one of the boys. “They said he’ll be a vegetable. He won’t talk, he won’t walk. And today he’s going to stand and give a Bar Mitzvah drasha.” She wiped the tears from her eyes, and whispered, “It’s because of Tikvah Layeled.”

The other parents concurred. Their sons, ensconced on the dais wearing crisp new shirts and ties, beamed with pride as they greeted well wishers and took in the decoration-festooned dining room. The therapists, teachers, and volunteers who had invested years in their development sat beside parents, friends, and relatives representing every Jewish community, from Meah Shearim to Mizrachi; and enjoyed a festive meal together. It was hard to tell who took more pride in the boys.

When one of the boys rose to give the traditional Bar Mitzvah drasha, an expectant hush fell over the dining hall. He held on to the table for support, and in a voice that was just-barely garbled, he thanked Tikvah Layeled.

“My teachers and therapists always believe in me,” he said. “They make me feel that I could do everything I want. They make me try harder.” He concluded with a short Torah thought, and sat down amidst much applause and copious tears.

“A few years ago, he wasn’t able to stand,” recalled one therapist. “Look at him today. A real Bar Mitzvah bachur!”
Tikvah Layeled made every effort to prepare the boys for their Bar Mitzvahs. That meant not only helping them with their speeches, but also teaching them to wrap Tefillin around their arms; a monumental effort for boys with cerebral palsy.

Tikvah Layeled Disabled children bar Mitzvah — Festive dancing at the Bar Mitzvah Celebrations

“Tefillin are a crown for a Jewish man,” said Rabbi Braitstein of Tikvah Layeled. “Today, Mesanel, Shimon, and Mordechai join the ranks of Jewish adults. They can be counted into a minyan, and they wear their crowns with pride.” For the boys, the Bar Mitzvah was a major step into the real world. For their parents and the staff at Tikvah Layeled, it was pure nachas.

To donate click here or visit www.Tikvahlayeled.org/donate

Tikvah Layeled Awareness Campaigns

February 9, 2015 Joan Reffner Back

It is the mission of Tikvah Layeled to raise awareness of the plight of children who suffer from cerebral palsy. Tikvah Layeled also leads efforts to provide therapy and loving support for the children in their care. To educate, raise awareness and to exchange the latest information on treatment, Tikvah Layeled regularly sponsors conferences and symposiums. At these meetings, leading medical authorities are invited to share their knowledge of the disorder so that the lives of Israel’s disabled children in can be improved.

Cerebral palsy is a disorder affecting the body’s central nervous system. CP develops either prenatally or as the result of a traumatic brain injury. Balance, coordination and motor skills are reduced and many of these children suffer from intellectual impairment as well. Tikvah Layeled’s awareness campaigns educate the public as they explore recent advances in care and treatment. Great progress has been made to help alleviate pain and to assist patients with muscle tension problems, and new advances exist just over the horizon.

By bringing the world’s leaders in research and treatment to Israel, Tikvah Layeled helps lower the need for families to travel abroad for treatment which can be expensive, time consuming and stressful. Advances in neurosurgery and orthopedics have done much to help these children, but more can be done in this ongoing effort and Tikvah Layeled remains committed to treatment, care, education and awareness.

Tikvah Layeled mourns a remarkable therapist Terror Victim Dalia Lamkus, Hy”d

February 1, 2015 admin Back

The entire Jewish world was thrust into mourning when Dalia Lamkus fell victim to a stabbing attack near Alon Shvut; but few were as grief stricken as the Tikvah Layeled family. Dalia, twenty five, was a beloved occupational therapist at Tikvah Layeled – and the staff, parents, and children will always remember her dedication and care.

Dalia loved the children in Tikvah Layeled – and they thrived under her care. She saw each child as a precious boy or girl, and was able to look past the disability and see the neshamah within. Blessed with a beautiful smile, Dalia lit up the therapy room with her presence. It was hard to be despondent in her presence. And while she prodded the children to work harder; to do more; her cheer and praise made the effort worthwhile.

The skills she taught changed lives. The ability of a child to bring a spoon to her mouth, to close a button, to keep herself clean; these are the things that spell the difference between independence and life as an invalid. But Dalia was much more than a therapist. She was a friend. She was always available to fill in when Tikvah Layeled was understaffed. On Tikvah Layeled’s special trips, Dalia was a favorite chaperone. She added not only spirited fun; but also emunah and bitachon, faith in Hashem,to any outing.

“She was so full of life, so full of ahavas Yisroel,” says ——, a fellow therapist at Tikvah Layeled. “She would do anything for the children. She absolutely adored them, and they adored her.”

Dalia is sorely missed by the staff, children, and parents of Tivkah Layeled. We have established a special fund in her memory, to benefit the children she loved so much. To donate, visit tikvahlayeled.org; and specify that your contribution is in tribute to Dalia bas Nachum Lamkus.

ת.נ.צ.ב.ה.

Tikvah Layeled Supplies Hospitals and Care Centers with Specialty Medical Equipment

January 27, 2015 Rachel Steinerhart Back

The Tikvah Layeled Foundation is recognized for providing Israeli care centers and hospitals advanced rehabilitation and diagnostic tools that aid in therapy for children with Cerebral Palsy. Specialized equipment is made available to local hospitals thanks to Tikvah Layeled’s international connections. This treatment center also assists the community with programs, screenings, and educational tools for special needs children and their families. Proper equipment used to diagnose and treat cerebral palsy is rare in Israeli care centers which is why Tikvah Layeled uses its resources to donate these items.

The center provided a screening machine that enables thorough testing in brain communication to Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem. This machine helps to better diagnose cerebral palsy in children. Equipment that tests newborn babies’ oxygen level and gas level in the bloodstream was also given. These medical tools grant necessary diagnostic and continuous treatment for special needs children. Patients should have access to the best medical care necessary for their condition and Tikvah Layeled aids in this process. They also gave a sophisticated orthopedic bone elongation system to Hadassah Hospital which they acquired from Italy. Cerebral Palsy can cause bone abnormalities including scoliosis and joint dislocations. The specialized orthopedic equipment can provide continuous treatment to those that require it.

Tikvah Layeled offers therapeutic care services that range from music and art to physical therapy for children with cerebral palsy. Also, educational programs and counseling for families are significant services that this foundation provides. Tikvah Layeled is a vital resource in the Israeli community for special needs children.

Wii Therapy? A Cutting Edge Gaming System Offers a New Approach to Traditional Rehab

January 21, 2015 Rachel Steinerhart Back

Cerebral Palsy is a neurologic disorder that results from a defect or insult to the immature brain and is one of the most common causes of motor disability in childhood. Children with cerebral palsy suffer from motor and cognitive disabilities, which usually require a variety of treatments over a long period of time. The Wii is a Nintendo gaming console created in 2006. Nintendo introduced the motion activated remote control and fit board to use along with the console. The fit board processes your movement, steps and balance and is a fun way to exercise. Could this video game prove to be efficient therapy for children with cerebral palsy?

Studies do show that Wii-based Balance Therapy is effective for children with ambulatory cerebral palsy. Results show that the Wii Fit is safe and enjoyable and can improve the static balance of those with CP. Health care professionals have begun to use interactive gaming systems and technology to help rehabilitate patients with musculoskeletal and neurologic conditions. It helps to direct the attention of the child away from the mundane and repetitive tasks of rehabilitation and allow them to “pretend” they are simply playing a video game. Wii-based balance training may be a preferable method of treatment for children with CP, however, it should be added along with conventional rehabilitation to see best results.

Studies of Wii-based treatment do show improvement in children’s balance and functional walking. It may not be suitable for every child with cerebral palsy but it may be just what your child needs.

The Promise of Stem Cell Research for Treatment of Cerebral Palsy

January 13, 2015 Sam Jutney Back

Cerebral palsy is a general term for a group of disorders that affect the body’s nervous system. Cerebral palsy is a permanent condition that will remain with the sufferer throughout his or her life, however, it is not a progressive disease that worsens over time. CP can result in an impairment of certain body functions, such as speech and movement. It can affect the way a person walks, talks and controls their balance. Those with CP may also have trouble with their hearing and vision, and in some cases they may be intellectually impaired. The disorder can be caused by injury to the brain or by an abnormality in the brain developed in the womb. Infants born prematurely have an increased likelihood of developing this disorder.

While there is no known cure for CP, some in the medical field believe that conducting stem cell research may provide an answer. While stem cells may not completely eradicate the effects of the disorder, it is hoped that stem cells may be developed to provide therapeutic treatment for sufferers.

What gives researchers hope in stem cells as a promising treatment is the versatility of the cells. Stem cells are what are known as undifferentiated cells, meaning they have the potential to develop along different lines. This means they could possibly be developed into cells that can be used in the treatment of Cerebral Palsy. Some day, it is hoped, through research and development of new methods of treatment, stem cells will be used as a form of restorative therapy in patients who suffer from diseases that damage the body’s nervous system, like CP.

Rehabilitation & Education of Children with Cerebral Palsy