December 2025 – Overcome with emotion, welling up with tears, Ashiea smiles at her son, Darrien, as his eyes light up with excitement. Darrien has a new set of coins to add to his collection – a thoughtful gift from Diane, K., his radiologist.

“It’s who they are. It’s the essence of what it means to be at La Rabida,” says Ashiea. “The people who take care of us, look after our children, my child, they make us feel secure.”

At La Rabida, we provide a comprehensive, holistic approach based on the child and their family, not just their condition. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, Darrien’s care team helps him navigate living with cerebral palsy, developmental delays, behavioral health, and prediabetes concerns.

Outpatient Care Coordinator, Andrea M., says from serial casting and rehabilitation sessions to after-school tutoring, she’s seen the ways our mission has helped our patients build a sense of identity. “He’s such a good and smart kid,” says Andrea. “He comes off shy at first, but once you get him started talking about his interests… you get to really see Darrien’s personality.”

Darrien is 13 years old, adventurous, creative, and feels empowered to explore more hobbies, like drawing. Our pediatric expertise goes beyond our hospital walls. We provide wraparound services to our families to help where they may need support.

“When I feel like lost in the darkness, not knowing what to do next, I know all I have to do is go to La Rabida,” says Ashiea. “I come with Darrien and all I have to do is just be mom, be a parent. That’s the best thing about this place. Darrien gets to be a kid, too.”

Darrien spent two weeks at Camp La Rabida, an extension of our mission. Our campus became a playground, energizing growth for a dozen kids through creative outlets, physical activity, and socialization.

Ashiea says watching Darrien’s care team remain committed to his well-being over the years, she knows they’re not alone.

“La Rabida gives us a sense of security.  La Rabida cares, you ask and anyone will help. Dependability matters. It feels like hope.”