3-year-old Nico, of Mission, and his family travel more than 500 miles to receive treatment at Scottish Rite for Children. “We make that effort to come this far, because it’s worth our drive,” Nico’s mom, Mary says. Nico was diagnosed at birth with clubfoot and arthrogryposis -- a rare condition that causes stiff joints. Mary found comfort in the arthrogryposis support groups she found online. Her conversations with other families led her to schedule an appointment for Nico at Scottish Rite.

Nico receives care from our experts in hand, clubfoot, occupational therapy and orthotics. Even when he’s facing a challenge, Nico’s joyful personality shines. He is always greeting and waving at everyone he meets at Scottish Rite. “I think Nico is going to grow up to be an entertainer,” Mary says. “He is such a social butterfly!” 
When surgery was proposed as part of Nico’s treatment plan, Mary felt assured. “We were always confident about surgery,” Mary says. “The outcomes our care team told us were always what we received.” Nico has had two surgeries to combat his arthrogryposis: an Achilles lengthening surgery on both legs in 2022 and a wrist surgery in 2023. 

Nico has made remarkable progress, and there is no stopping him now! Mary says she is thankful to Dr. Scott Oishi and Dr. Anthony Riccio for their attentive care. With their help, Nico can now walk by himself. He’s also working with occupational therapists Amy Sitabkhan and Grace Evansco to develop more independence by learning daily tasks such as eating and clothing himself. “I wish I could take Scottish Rite’s occupational therapists back home with us,” Mary says. “Everyone is so helpful, and we are so blessed.” 
 
We like to say all our patients become part of the Scottish Rite family. For Nico, this is especially true. He and his family are now part of our Hand in Hand support group, and it’s been so fun to watch Nico come out of his shell. We look forward to seeing everything he accomplishes in the future!

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