Grant helps family access therapy for boy with rare genetic condition
Kaysen's Story
Playing alongside his two younger brothers in their living room, 10-year-old Kaysen is laughing and having fun.
It’s a sight his mom, Tracy Collins, cherishes — a testament to all that Kaysen has accomplished through a challenging health journey.
Kaysen was born with Emanuel syndrome1, a rare genetic condition that impacts his ability to talk, walk and eat. The condition can also cause seizures, heart abnormalities and kidney issues.
“It was very emotional, especially for your first time having a kid,” said Kaysen’s dad, Kevin. “It caught us off guard, but we persevered through and we’re blessed to have him here.”
Tracy said as Kaysen grows, she sees more hope for him to gain independence.
“To be able to help transition himself more, be able to walk more, a little bit more with his eating,” she said, “I would love to have that for him.”
That continued independence is possible thanks to ongoing therapies, including occupational, physical and speech therapy.
With help from the UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation (UHCCF), Kaysen’s family qualified for grants to help cover the cost of his occupational and physical therapies.
Since 2005, UHCCF has awarded more than 37,000 grants valued at over $75 million. The funding pays for children’s medical expenses not covered, or not fully covered, by a commercial health insurance plan.
Since 2005, UHCCF has awarded more than 37,000 grants valued at over $75 million. The funding pays for children’s medical expenses not covered, or not fully covered, by a commercial health insurance plan.
“That (financial) worry is off of our shoulders,” Tracy said. “We just have to focus on Kaysen going to therapy and how to help improve him. It’s been just a really great blessing.”
Kaysen continues to grow more independent with each therapy session, something his parents are grateful for.
“Celebrating the milestones is extremely important,” Kevin said. “We try to focus on what he can do, instead of what he can’t do.”
Is your child eligible?
- Grant recipients must be 16 years old or younger at the time of application
- Must meet eligible income requirements
- Must be children under the care of a licensed medical professional with services rendered within the United States
- Primary coverage for a child must be by a commercial health plan, either through an employer or individually purchased. Secondary insurance through Medicaid or CHIP is permissible.
- Children do not need to be insured by UnitedHealthcare.
Do you know a family who could benefit from a children’s medical grant? The UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation is currently accepting applications. Visit UHCCF.org for more information on how to apply.
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