Meet the magnificent Monti, Milwaukee’s Walk with Me ambassador
by Bob
It is seldom that you come across a 3-year-old that has already lived through so many medical struggles, but that is the story of Monti Taylor. Monti has been fighting battles his whole short life, and he and his family have not given up. Not even once.
The first struggle began the day Monti was born. He was born prematurely, but weighed in at a healthy seven pounds. Monti developed feeding problems and jaundice, however, along with other complications that led to weeks in the intensive care unit.
When he was finally able to go home, he spent his early months on a monitor for postnatal apnea. There were other medical challenges along the way but Monti overcame them and began growing in to a strong, smiling, happy boy.
After turning 2, things began to change. Monti exhibited decreased attention and communication skills. Monti’s doctor suggested that he be tested for autism, and he was diagnosed in May of last year.
Monti’s parents enrolled their son in our Birth to Three program here at Easter Seals Southeast Wisconsin and received autism therapy services. His mom noticed immediate progress and Monti, now age 3, attends Grantosa Drive elementary school and continues to make progress in his language and social skills every day.
Monti’s family and his teachers are very proud of this happy, loving little boy and are very grateful for the help he and his family received from Easter Seals.
Monti is just one of many examples of the success of early intervention therapies for children with autism, and the help doesn’t end after early intervention. Easter Seals will be here to provide support services for Monti and his family as he grows, and as his needs change in high school, with employment and beyond.
Monti has been selected as an honorary ambassador for Easter Seals Southeastern Wisconsin’s Walk With Me event this Friday evening, June 18th. Money raised through this Walk will be used to provide direct services for individuals with special needs in Southeast Wisconsin. Please visit and consider donating to our walk — your support will go far beyond just one evening of walking and it will forever make a difference in the life of someone like Monti.