Since 2017, the Telethon-funded In-Home Baby Intervention Service (IBIS) delivered by Ability WA has supported the development, health and wellbeing of vulnerable WA infants.
Research proves that children with developmental delays or disabilities have better outcomes when they start therapy as early as possible. However, access to quality early childhood intervention services and equipment can be challenging. Ability WA’s loan library gives children and their families access to equipment that provides independence, comfort and inclusion in family activities.
Finn Stepien’s parents realised he wasn’t hitting the usual developmental milestones at three months old. The Stepien family was suddenly catapulted into a world of doctor visits and tests. At age one, Finn was diagnosed with a life-limiting rare genetic condition that affects all areas of his development.
Finn Stepien. Credit: Supplied by family
In the early stages of his diagnosis, while his parents navigated therapies, funding and support equipment, Finn was given vital therapy and loaned equipment through Ability WA to support his development.
Finn using support equipment from the Ability WA equipment library. Credit: Ability WA
Finn’s mother Amy said: “Our son Finn was given a standing system from the loan library. His face lit up from the first time he was put in it. This stander not only supported him physically to build strength in his legs and hips but also gave him a whole new perspective. He absolutely loved being able to see everyone and everything around him. It also gave him the independence to play and interact with others, including his big sister.”
Finn using equipment from the Ability WA equipment library. Credit: Ability WA
Thanks to Telethon, Ability WA can significantly expand its therapeutic equipment loan library to provide vulnerable children with quick access to specialised strollers, wheelchairs, high-chairs, walkers, standing frames and seating. This has a life-changing positive impact, supporting children with the right equipment at the right time.
Ability WA’s equipment loan library was established initially with Telethon funding, and Telethon is proud to continue its funding and make early childhood intervention a priority.