Enzo Rivera-Perez

When Karina Perez went into labor, there was no reason to expect any issues; she had not experienced any complications during her pregnancy. However, she had a difficult delivery and her baby got stuck. Shortly after he was born, her son, Enzo, was diagnosed with Erb’s palsy, a condition caused by damage to nerves that control the shoulder and arm. He was referred to occupational therapy and was just five days old when he had his first appointment with Samantha Letson, pediatric therapist at Memorial Health’s Dwaine & Cynthia Willett Children’s Hospital of Savannah.

“As a new parent, I was scared for what the future will have in store for us as a family and for my son,” said Karina. “How will the other kids treat him if he doesn’t regain motion with his left arm?” She didn’t realize how soon her questions would be answered.

Enzo began to show improvement almost immediately. He was able to move his shoulder within days after his first therapy appointment. Karina said, “I started crying…but happy tears” when he moved his shoulder for the first time. Samantha gave them exercises to do at home and he made good progress each week. “She has given us all the tools to help our son overcome his little obstacles and he has managed to find a way of doing things his own way, too.”

Now, Enzo has celebrated his first birthday. He still comes to therapy and he is always excited to see Samantha. “You have to see the look he gives her. He enjoys his time with her,” said Karina. His range of motion is improving and he’s making great strides but he still has to work hard at therapy. Mom says she and her husband cherish every little movement and improvement he makes and they know that Enzo is on the right path with the right people. “Samantha has been a blessing in our life and we are so grateful for her. She has been so patient and kind with our son.”