In Support of Caden's Journey
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Caden is just 15 months old and was born with Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome), a diagnosis where an extra chromosome affects development, growth, and overall health. Even with the extra challenges on his plate, this little guy has the brightest smile and truly lights up every room he enters.
Caden has always been a fighter, and our family works hard to support his health and developmental goals. After a lot of research, we found the most cost-efficient intensive available—a program in Canada at Smile Therapy, led by the founder of Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) herself. It’s an opportunity that gives Caden the exact type of therapy he needs at the exact time he needs it.
Because this therapy is not covered by insurance—whether in the U.S. or Canada—families pay the entire amount out of pocket. Each round of intensive therapy, including additional treatments like OT, chiropractic, and room and board, costs about $3,500, and Caden needs three rounds. The window is time-sensitive, as DMI is weight-dependent, and once Caden reaches 35 pounds, many of the most effective techniques are no longer possible. Early neuroplasticity is precious, and acting during this window makes a real difference.
It’s also important to understand the scale families face: raising a child with a disability can cost $1.4 to $2.4 million, which is nearly ten times what it typically costs to raise a neurotypical child. This journey isn’t an even playing field, and that’s why community support matters so deeply.
Every donation goes 100% toward Caden’s therapy intensives, giving him the best chance to build strength, stability, and movement skills while the window is open.
His family will be posting updates here so everyone can follow along with Caden’s journey. Your support—whether donating or sharing—means the world.
Please share this far and wide, and let’s cheer on this sweet boy every step of the way.
Let’s go, #TeamCaden!
Let’s go, #TeamCaden!
Updates
Keep up to date as needs change.
Jan 23, 2026
Days 3 & 4 Complete!
Wow — what an amazing few days it has been. We have officially turn...
Jan 21, 2026
Day One & Two Complete!
The first two days of therapy are officially in the books — and wha...
Jan 17, 2026
Packed & Ready to Go!
Tomorrow we head out for our first therapy session! We’re excited, ...
- Created Nov 19, 2025
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Theresa Andrews
Kathy Elkins
Christine Elkins
Cathy Elkins
Theresa Andrews
Kathy Marr