Gavin found his independence with music therapy!

In July 2023, Gavin sustained a traumatic brain injury at only 17 years old. Since then, he began a remarkable journey of recovery. One of the most challenging aspects of Gavin’s recovery has been overcoming motor planning deficits, a common complication of brain injuries which impacts his ability to complete his activities of daily living, such as putting on his Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO).

Initially, Gavin was able to understand each step of the process when broken down but putting all the steps together proved to be an overwhelming task. This difficulty in sequencing impacted his confidence and his ability to be independent in putting on his AFO. Recognizing the need for a different approach his occupational therapist Amnee Barakat discussed these challenges during a monthly family conference with Gavin’s family and other RWW therapists. His music therapist Cynthia Rael suggested co-treating to explore whether the use of music could be the key to unlocking Gavin’s potential.

During the co-treatment, Cynthia observed the steps for donning the AFO with use of hemi-dressing techniques, while Amnee highlighted the critical parts of the sequence that needed emphasis. Cynthia strategically crafted a simple, catchy song specifically tailored to Gavin’s needs. The AFO song aimed to guide Gavin through each step in a fluid, memorable, and engaging way.

The results were nothing short of astounding. After a series of practice runs, Gavin transitioned from requiring maximum assistance to don his AFO to doing it independently. The song not only facilitated his motor planning but also boosted his confidence and sense of autonomy. The success of this co-treatment went beyond just the AFO; Gavin began to show improvements in sequencing across other ADLs, enhancing his overall ability to perform daily tasks.

Gavin’s story is a prime example of how collaboration between different disciplines can lead to extraordinary outcomes. By merging the expertise of both disciplines, Amnee and Cynthia were able to create a therapeutic experience that was not only effective but also empowering for Gavin. His journey continues to inspire all who work with him, and we look forward to future collaborations that will undoubtedly bring more success stories like Gavin’s.