Finding Her Voice: Gigi’s Journey at UCP

Written By: Sarah Duncan, UCP of Central Florida

When you meet Gigi, a bright and determined third grader at UCP, the first thing you notice is her smile and soon after, her voice. Funny, outgoing, and full of personality, Gigi has a way of drawing people in. As she continues to develop her communication and social skills, those around her are getting to know her more and more, and it’s impossible not to love the joyful, spirited person she is becoming.

Gigi’s journey with UCP began when she was just a baby. From the very start, she has received consistent therapies that have supported her development and helped her build a strong foundation for growth. Over the years, her progress has been remarkable. She has come such a long way in her communication, mobility, fine-motor, and academic skills, showing determination and resilience at every step.

Today, Gigi is able to engage in reciprocal conversations, sharing her thoughts and ideas while listening and responding to others. She confidently advocates for her needs, an important milestone that reflects her growing independence and self-awareness. She is also connecting more deeply with the people around her—forming relationships with teachers, therapists, classmates, and friends. As these skills continue to develop, Gigi’s personality shines even brighter, allowing everyone to truly see her sense of humor and outgoing nature.

UCP has played a vital role in Gigi’s success. Through consistent therapies, wonderful teachers, and a supportive, inclusive classroom environment, Gigi has been given the tools she needs to thrive. Her teachers work tirelessly to support her academically, while her therapists focus on building skills that translate into everyday independence. Her classmates, who learn alongside her, help create a welcoming environment where differences are embraced and friendships can flourish.

At home, Gigi’s growth brings daily moments of pride and happiness. Her mom shares, “She amazes me, her independence and strong will are qualities that I admire. She surprises me every day by using new words randomly within conversations that I didn’t know she knew! Those moments make my heart so happy!” These spontaneous moments are powerful reminders of how much Gigi is learning and how far she has come.

While Gigi’s journey is ongoing, her progress is undeniable. As her mom lovingly reflects, “I know there is a long way to go, but the improvement is undeniable. I am certain that with love, kindness, and hard work she will do amazing things!” That belief, combined with Gigi’s determination and the support of the UCP community, continues to fuel her success.

Gigi’s story is one of growth, perseverance, and joy. She is finding her voice, building her independence, and sharing her wonderful personality with the world. With each new skill, we get to know her a little more—and it’s clear that Gigi’s future is full of amazing possibilities.