The Children's Neurological Center - JFK Medical Center

TouchingLives
Children’s Neurological Center
Guides Boy’s Journey to Success
E
leven-year-old Willie Forsythe
is not just a patient at the
Children’s Neurological Center
(CNC). He’s part of the family.
A division of the New Jersey Neuroscience
Institute and regional leader in pediatric
neurology, CNC has been the central
resource for Willie’s medical care since he
was a toddler. Challenged by a myriad of
complex neurological conditions, he has
grown and thrived under the compassionate
expertise of CNC’s dedicated team of
specialists. He truly exemplifies the unique
commitment between families and clinicians
as they journey together toward healing,
hope and attaining each child’s fullest
potential.
“The staff treats Willie as if he was their
own son…understanding and addressing
his needs, encouraging him, nurturing him,
and helping him be the best he can be,” said
his mom, Deborah Forsythe. In her view,
CNC is far more than a doctors’ office. For
Willie, it is a safe haven that has given him
the comfort, courage and confidence to
succeed.
The Forsythes, formerly residents of South
Plainfield, New Jersey, came to CNC on
the recommendation of their pediatrician
and other trusted childcare professionals.
Dr. Michael Seyffert and Willie Forsythe
10 | SPRING 2007
They were concerned about Willie’s development
at just 2 years old, noticing delays
in his speech, muscle weakness, eating
behaviors and social behaviors. Following a
comprehensive evaluation by CNC’s multi-
“
The staff treats Willie
as if he was their own
son…understanding and
addressing his needs,
encouraging him, nurturing
him, and helping him
be the best he can be.
—Deborah Forsythe—
”
disciplinary group of pediatric subspecialists,
Willie was diagnosed with several neurodevelopmental
problems and his family
was presented with a clear, coordinated
treatment plan.
“That is what distinguishes the Children’s
Neurological Center from other facilities,”
stated pediatric neurologist Michael Seyffert,
MD, Medical Director, Child Evaluation
Center. “We have many renowned neurological
experts under one roof, giving us the
ability to work together, reach a consensus
and provide an integrated
approach to diagnosis and
treatment.”
Willie received occupational,
physical and speech
therapy at CNC, showing
dramatic progress within
weeks. A young child with
limited interaction and
vocabulary began singing
songs and conversing with
others, while also learning
how to tie his shoes, button
his clothes and even
throw a ball. “This early
intervention gave Willie the self-esteem to
overcome his fears and the freedom to grow
up,” said Mrs. Forsythe. “So when he went
to pre-school, he boarded the bus with a
smile and said ‘See ya, Mom.’ That was
awesome.”
Over the years, Willie has faced additional
hurdles associated with attention deficit/
hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep
problems and other neurological complications.
According to Dr. Seyffert, ADHD is
the most common childhood neuropsychiatric
disorder, affecting close to 10 percent
of all children, and often co-exists with
related medical conditions.
“For that reason, it is so important to treat
the whole child,” asserted Dr. Seyffert.
“The Children’s Neurological Center is
staffed and equipped to handle multiple
issues at the same time and consider every
aspect of a child’s development and wellbeing.”
Although the Forsythes moved to East
Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, CNC has continued
to serve as Willie’s primary health
provider. “Everyone at the center—from
the doctors to the technicians—has been
wonderful,” remarked Mrs. Forsythe.
“I don’t mind traveling a little longer to get
Willie the best care.”
Willie has progressed tremendously under
the guidance of CNC, making great strides
in such areas as speech, fine motor coordination
and behavioral modification. Now
in the sixth grade, he is excelling in school
and pursuing such interests as karate, soccer
and has aspirations of becoming a veterinarian.
“The Children’s Neurological Center
helped Willie emerge into a confident,
more self-reliant child who is leading a full
life,” added Mrs. Forsythe. “They don’t
treat him as a sick kid, but as a person who
is happy being himself…I couldn’t ask for
more.” ❦