Adaja Jackson

Adaja Jackson has overcome many obstacles in her 5 years of life.

Adaja was born almost four months early with severe lung disease, Cerebral Palsy, and a need for a tracheotomy to help her breathe. Before coming to the Achievement Centers for Children, Adaja was not able to crawl, feed herself, speak, write, or walk.

Things for Adaja changed, however, after only a few months of speech, physical and occupational therapy at the Achievement Centers.

Adaja’s father, Greg Jackson, recalls that it didn’t take Adaja very long to begin speaking after she started speech therapy at the Achievement Centers because she is such a quick and eager learner.

Adaja also learned to feed and dress herself, and began to read and write. She wears braces on her legs for balance and has progressed from a walker to forearm crutches when she is walking at school and in the community.

Adaja’s first steps without the assistance of her walker or crutches were huge accomplishments for her, her family and Achievement Centers therapists.

They were so excited when she walked alone that Adaja and her physical therapist announced her success over the intercom system at the agency. Everyone was so thrilled that cheers erupted from the hallways! She is loved by our staff and gives back to everyone with the biggest hugs.

"The Achievement Centers for Children was one of the best things that we did for Adaja, says Tiffany Jackson, Adaja’s mom. "The therapists are very creative and have exceeded our expectations."

According to her parents, Adaja is a very determined young lady and she doesn’t need much help being motivated. "When she falls, she does not ask for help, but continues to try and stand up by herself", says Greg. "We are so proud of her and know she will continue to excel."