At KenCrest’s Medically Fragile Children's Transitional Care Homes, the connection between caregivers and children goes far beyond daily medical support. It becomes a lasting bond that lives on in the hearts of caregivers, children, and families even after these little ones move home. This connection is not only vital to the children’s progress and healing but also a source of resilience and confidence for families as they step into the next chapter of care.
Yvonne, a childcare worker with two decades at KenCrest, and Rebeca, a nurse with 12 years of experience, first met Jose and Maria when they were medically fragile infants, each dependent on ventilators and a tracheostomy to breathe. From day one, Yvonne and Rebeca poured their hearts into caring for the twins, celebrating each small milestone and dreaming of their eventual progress. As Rebeca recalls, watching Jose and Maria grow from relying on medical equipment to learning to communicate and walk was nothing short of miraculous.
But for Yvonne and Rebeca, their relationship with Jose, Maria, and their family didn’t end when the twins transitioned home. Yvonne has become known as the twins’ “abuela” (grandmother), a title she holds with pride. She regularly FaceTimes with the family, celebrating birthdays, milestones, and simple daily joys. For her, Jose and Maria are more than children she cared for—they are family.
Rebeca’s connection with the family is equally profound. Recognizing the challenges that can arise after transitioning home, Rebeca didn’t hesitate to continue supporting the family. She helps bridge language barriers, assists in arranging appointments, and has even worked part-time in the family’s home, providing care and support as they adjust. Her efforts ensure that Jose and Maria’s mother feels empowered to navigate the medical system and give her children every opportunity to thrive. With Rebeca’s bilingual skills and deep understanding of the children’s needs, she has become a trusted partner, advisor, and friend to the family.
These bonds have brought heartfelt joy to everyone involved. Yvonne fondly recalls a special birthday celebration where she joined the family for lunch, feeling truly embraced as their “abuela.” Rebeca, too, treasures moments like setting up a pool for Jose and Maria to enjoy despite their medical complexities. She remembers the twins’ laughter and delight as they splashed around, simply being joyful children.
KenCrest’s commitment to lifelong support and relationship building fosters not only an environment where children like Maria and Jose can flourish but also feel empowered, cared for, and capable even after transitioning home. Through birthday parties, pool days, and video calls with family members, children at KenCrest experience childhoods full of joy, safety, and love like any other. We’re not just part of a child’s journey; we’re part of the family, and that’s a bond that will always last.
