At just three years old, Ginny Lou Haggard from Little Rock is already a shining example of strength, resilience, and joy. Whether she’s playing “mama” with her baby dolls, going on walks, shaping creations out of play-doh, or tossing a ball around the yard, Ginny Lou fills her days with activity, imagination, and love. But her early story began with challenges that few families are fully prepared for—challenges that led her family to Easterseals Arkansas, and to a community that has since become a cornerstone of their lives.
A Brave Start and an Unexpected Turn
Ginny Lou’s journey into the world came sooner than anyone expected. Born at just 27 weeks, she spent the earliest weeks of her life in the neonatal intensive care unit, where each day was a testament to her will to thrive. It was during this critical time that her care team referred her to the High-Risk Infant Monitoring Program at Easterseals Arkansas.
For her mother, Ashley, that referral sparked a connection that would grow into a trusted, enduring partnership. “I had volunteered with Easterseals through my church years ago,” Ashley recalls. “I never imagined then how deeply personal and impactful that connection would become for my family.”
From NICU to Preschool: Growing with Easterseals
As Ginny Lou grew stronger, so did her need for specialized care. She began receiving occupational, physical, and speech therapy through Easterseals Arkansas, which helped her navigate crucial early milestones in her development. Now a student in Easterseals' inclusive preschool program, she continues to receive physical and speech therapy, with occupational therapy successfully completed just after her third birthday.
Thanks to these services, Ginny Lou is not just keeping up—she’s thriving. “The goal from the start was to help her catch up to her peers by the time she starts kindergarten,” Ashley shares. “Because of the hard work of her therapists and the support of the school, she is absolutely on track to meet that goal.”
And it’s not just therapy sessions that make the difference. The preschool environment itself, where children of all abilities learn and play together, provides rich opportunities for social development, friendship, and inclusion. “Watching her grow in that setting has been amazing,” says Ashley. “It’s a place where every child is celebrated.”
A Community that Lifts Families Up
As a single mother, Ashley emphasizes just how crucial the support from Easterseals has been—not only for Ginny Lou’s development but for her own well-being. The Parent-Teacher-Therapist Organization (PTTO) has become a meaningful outlet for connection with other parents who understand the journey. “Being part of the PTTO has given me a network of people who just get it. We support each other, and that has been so important.”
And for every therapy session and classroom day, there are staff members who go above and beyond. One such person is Erica Chafton, who has become a source of unwavering encouragement. “From our very first evaluation, Erica has been a light,” Ashley says. “She’s not just doing her job—she’s truly in our corner, cheering Ginny Lou on through every milestone.”
A Foundation for the Future
The impact of Easterseals Arkansas stretches far beyond the present moment. Ashley hopes to see her daughter continue growing into a happy, healthy, and compassionate young person—and she knows the foundation being laid now is vital to that future.
“Easterseals isn’t just about meeting therapy goals,” she explains. “It’s about building a child’s self-worth, helping them feel seen and valued. They’re showing Ginny Lou—and us—that abilities come in all forms, and every life has meaning.”
Why Easterseals Arkansas Matters
When asked what she would tell another family considering Easterseals, Ashley doesn’t hesitate: “Do it. This program has changed our lives in so many ways. The care, the support, the advocacy—they’ve helped turn fear into confidence and challenges into victories.”
Ginny Lou’s story is just one of many that illustrate the heart of Easterseals Arkansas—a place where families find hope, kids find their potential, and communities grow stronger through compassion and care.
Learn More, Get Involved, or Reach Out
Whether your child was born prematurely, is facing developmental delays, or just needs a little extra help reaching their milestones, Easterseals Arkansas children’s programs offer expert care in a nurturing, inclusive environment. From therapy and preschool to family education and support groups, Easterseals is here to walk with you every step of the way.
We are so proud of Ginny Lou and her journey, and we can’t wait to see all the incredible things she’ll accomplish in the years ahead.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the services Easterseals offers, get in touch with us today. Your journey starts here.
