Sharing great outcomes: Noble of Indiana

This story, shared by Rita Davis at Noble of Indiana, is just one example of how your gift to United Way helps to address today's needs in the Central Indiana community.

Granddaughter Molly’s constant chatter is a welcome sound to Sandy’s ears. At age two, Molly still wasn’t talking and often became frustrated and threw tantrums when she wasn’t able verbalize her needs. Sandy recalls thinking that Molly was such an unhappy baby. She never smiled; she just cried.

After some research, Sandy called Noble of Indiana. The first thing Speech Therapist Terry Duwe asked was, “what does she call you?”  Sandy said, “she doesn’t call me anything; she doesn’t talk.” Terry’s worried look confirmed Sandy’s suspicions that something was definitely wrong...and that she had made the right move in coming to Noble.

During their weekly therapy visits, Terry would sit on the floor with Molly, and the two would play – at least that’s what it looks like to the casual observer. However, each game and interaction has a purpose. Whether it’s forming an “O” by blowing bubbles, making silly faces in the mirror to learn how to position the tongue against the teeth, or learning sign language to get past communication barriers, this play helps children build vital communication skills.

By Christmas time, Molly was showing remarkable progress. She visited a little neighbor boy’s house and when his mother brought her home, she said to Sandy, “I can’t believe Molly’s vocabulary!”

Terry agrees. Molly wasn’t talking at all at age two, but she has come a long way in a short period of time. It’s provided for some insightful conversation. When her Grandpa asked who was coming over that day, Molly said, “Miss Terry – she’s the teacher who gives children voices.” Molly’s tantrums are gone. Sandy says, “She’s such a happy child now. She tells me exactly what she needs, or if something is too hot or too cold.”

Molly is now in preschool. She likes to stand in front of the TV and pretend she has a microphone and sing. According to her grandmother: “She’s really bright and outgoing. Whatever she does, I think she’ll do well.” Sandy advises parents to listen to their instincts. “The biggest thing I would say to others is get help right away if you’re worried. Don’t give up; those warning signs are serious, but it doesn’t mean the worst will happen to your child.”

Since 1958, United Way has invested over $12.4 million to help Noble of Indiana provide a variety of therapies, services and supports for children and adults with developmental delays and disabilities. More information on Noble of Indiana can be found here.

-- Cindy Jones, United Way Agency Services