UMAP Client’s Sister Writes Book, Credits UMAP

In December 2011, we featured what is definitely one of our most moving and inspiring client stories. We introduced you to Josh Hodgson, the determined young man who, after suffering a stroke 6 years ago at the age of 13, has made immense strides in rediscovering his voice. Read his full story here.

Now, we shift the focus to Josh’s sister, who has written a highly informative and moving children’s book about Josh, called Josh's Road to Recovery. She even credits UMAP in the book!

Meet Kayla Hodgson, a native of Blair, NE and the oldest of three. A former softball player and current assistant softball coach at College of Saint Mary (CSM), she is gearing up to graduate from CSM in May 2012 with her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. On deciding to write a book about her brother, Kayla says:

"I wrote the book for one of my classes. The assignment was to create a project in an area of interest. On a family vacation [in the summer of 2011], two of my younger cousins were asking me questions about why Josh couldn’t talk like everyone else. I realized that there wasn’t very much information for children on strokes. I decided to share Josh’s story to spread the awareness of childhood stroke within the community. I wrote the book in less than a semester, [and it is intended for] elementary-aged children and their parents. But, it can be read at any age."

Kayla's favorite part about writing the book was connecting with Josh, and reminiscing about the long but successful journey he has had so far.

"[I loved] learning more about Josh’s personal experience through his recovery and hearing him share the emotions he experienced. I also enjoyed finding pictures to use for the book, remembering all of the therapists that used to work with him."

Perhaps the most exciting part for us was to see Kayla’s mention of UMAP in her book, and hearing how much it helped Josh:

"I visited Josh at UMAP the first time he was there, so I was able to attend some of his speech sessions. I have seen improvements in Josh after attending. I think the best part about UMAP is every therapist works with each individual to find the best strategy to help the clients improve."

Kayla’s family was beyond supportive of the book. She and her parents have distributed it to family, Josh’s former therapists and doctors, teachers, coworkers, Josh’s friends, and everyone who has supported Josh along his journey. Her mom, Kori, is also trying to get the book into school libraries. It was even purchased by Josh’s former rehab hospital to be sold in their gift store!

When asked what the future holds for her, Kayla’s plans are big and bright:

"After I graduate, I would like to work in a rehabilitation hospital or nursing home in the Omaha, NE area. I would like to write another book, someday. Josh thinks I should, too. I would like to write a children’s book about my cousin, who is deaf, and her life experiences."

What an outstanding job you’ve done on this book, Kayla! To purchase Josh’s Road to Recovery, visit Amazon.com.