Skip to content

Soccer star in a special little package


By Liz Jurkowski with photo provided by Cherie VanHorn

At first glance, it is obvious that Josiah is special. He has a walker, seems delicate, and is small for his age. But at second glance, it is clear he is just like the other three-year-olds on the soccer field; happy to be on a team, proud of his blue uniform, and eager to play.

Born two months early with kidney issues, Josiah underwent surgery and stayed in the NICU for more than two months. This brave little miracle, who struggles from Noonan Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy, has had a total of five surgeries. He has four therapies weekly, and sees “about every specialist you can see,” says his mother, Cherie.

Despite his physical limitations, Josiah has no cognitive limitations. “He is a very bright and witty three-year old . . . With all he has been through, he is such a determined little guy!” Cherie adds.

Josiah loves sports, and his determined spirit convinced his parents to sign him up for Soccer Tots through Castle Pines Athletics, despite their initial hesitation. “I did not want him to feel discouraged by what he was incapable of! Even though he had to work hard for even simple things like getting to the ball, he loved it all,” Cherie explains.

Josiah’s coach, Shannon, was terrific for him. She was patient and welcoming. Amazingly, the gentle nature of little kids emerged on the field. Instead of stealing the ball or moving away from Josiah who either played with his walker or with one of his parents holding his hands for support, his teammates and the other players celebrated when he kicked the ball, allowed him to participate fully, and cheered when he scored.

“When he was an infant,” his mother admits, “I thought, wow, he has a lot of obstacles to overcome and lots to learn.” But, “he has taught my husband and me more than we will ever be able to teach him. He has really been a blessing to our family.”

Josiah knows he will only be as limited as he allows himself to be. Just like his cheerful spirit and determination pushed his parents to sign him up for soccer, the same will undoubtedly happen with his next athletic request, ski lessons!

Avatar

CPC

Posted in

Tags

Recent Stories

Archives