Best Of All – Lucy!
Lucy is pure joy in motion. A burst of music, laughter, and light wherever she goes. Whether she’s stepping foot in the gym for GiGiFIT, giving 110% in Speech Therapy with Ms. Amanda, or gearing up to make all the music during Music Makers, it’s clear Lucy gives her Best Of All in all she does. With a rhythm in her heart and a sparkle in her spirit, Lucy reminds us that life is meant to be danced through, unapologetically. This month, with input from her biggest cheerleader, her mom, we are so proud to celebrate her as this month’s Best of All!
Lucy LOVES music, and it shows in everything she does. Whether she’s singing, dancing, or lighting up a room with her smile, Lucy is always ready to perform. From knowing just about every Laurie Berkner song to having a full routine to the Spice Girls, she brings energy and happiness wherever she goes.
At GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland, Lucy has jumped right into programs like LMNOP, Speech Therapy, GiGiFIT Preschooler, and Music Makers. Her family shares how much she loves working with Ms. Amanda and how incredible it has been to watch her grow. In GiGiFIT, Lucy has been part of the same group of friends for over two years, and what her family lovingly calls her “group date with her Bachelors.” When she isn’t deciding who gets the “final rose”, watching those friendships blossom has been something truly special.
One of Lucy’s most unforgettable moments? Taking her first steps at GiGi’s! And her little sister Annie followed right behind her a couple of years later. Mom also shares that meeting Minnie Mouse this past January is right up there at the top, too! It’s the little things, though, like hearing cheers of excitement from staff in the background, that remind Lucy’s family just how much love surrounds every milestone here.
Lucy’s mom shared something powerful: Lucy is NOT a baby. She is independent, expressive, and full of personality. She goes to school, picks out her own clothes, gives the best hugs, and isn’t shy about letting you know what she wants. She is showing the world exactly who she is. Her growth from “Baby Lucy” to “Lucy Girl” has been incredible. From those early days in LMNOP when her family wondered what the future might look like, to now, Lucy is confidently sitting on stage, helping lead songs, and actively participating. She belongs and she shines.
Through speech therapy, Lucy has made amazing strides in communication. Our SLP, Ms. Amanda, shares, “Lucy has demonstrated so much growth since 2025! Lucy is working on developing her communication skills in a variety of ways. This includes using sign language vocabulary, producing verbal approximations and words, as well as selecting images on a communication board. This multi-modal approach has allowed her to effectively convey her preferences and make requests, answer questions, and connect socially! What I love about Lucy is her love of books! We could do a whole lesson based on a book she selected before coming into the therapy room! I am so proud of you, Lucy!”
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Beyond the programs, Lucy’s family says GiGi’s has become a second family. From hugs to support to celebrating every win, big or small, they know they are never alone.
When asked what they hope for Lucy, her family shared something simple but meaningful: that she goes to college, is part of her community, and is seen for who she is – not just her diagnosis.
And if there’s one thing they want others to know? A diagnosis might feel scary at first, but Down syndrome is not. Because truly . . . how could you be scared of a three-year-old with a full dance routine to “Spice Up Your Life”?
Lucy, you are a leader, a performer, a friend, and a light. You bring joy, confidence, and connection to everyone lucky enough to know you. We are so proud of you and so grateful to be part of your story.
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