Giving More Babies Than Ever a Strong Start in LIfe

With the need for early intervention services growing, identical toddler twins Analyse and Luciana give not one, but two faces to a program that is delivering big results for babies and families. 

Born premature, the girls spent their first two weeks in the hospital. Modern medicine helps more babies survive a premature birth, but there is a higher risk of health complications, including vision loss and developmental delays. Their father, Fernando, recalls, “Once we arrived home, we noticed the twins’ eyes never stopped moving. They could not hold our gaze.” 

Their pediatrician was concerned that the girls might be blind. Further testing revealed that hydrocephalus was putting pressure on the optic nerve, inhibiting vision. After successful surgery, vision improved to an extent, but the girls needed ongoing support to address the remaining visual impairment and overall developmental delays.

That’s when Analyse and Luciana began receiving services in the Global Infant Development program of BCLC. The Center works with the twins and their entire family in their home to reach key milestones. Infant Specialist Nancy exposes the girls to specialized techniques and equipment that maximize functional vision. For this busy family of six, “Receiving services in the home is huge. The girls have so many appointments, I’m not sure we could make them all,” says Fernando. 

One year into the program, BCLC’s knowledgeable therapists and specialists have helped the girls make significant gains. “I can tell their vision has really improved,” shares Fernando. “Now when I blow the girls a kiss good night, they blow kisses back.” 

---

Create Stronger Futures Today