Cerebral Palsy Clinic Saluted
Letters to the Editor
The Daily World, Opelousas, LA
June 3, 1997
The Opelousas Area Cerebral Palsy Clinic, a United Way agency, is embarking on its 40th year in operation. The Clinic provides physical therapy to children and adults with cerebral palsy, free of charge.
The Clinic was started by Elaine Fields, a young mother seeking a place where her young daughter with cerebral palsy would receive physical therapy. Mrs. Fields' dream became a reality with the assistance and dedication of so many members of our community; the same community that still continues to give. Mrs. Fields' dream has lived on through the years in the lives of the many children that have benefited from the physical therapy provided by the clinic.
Another person instrumental in the history and success of the Clinic was Lois Boagni, who was the director of the Clinic for many years. She also taught and nurtured the children attending the Clinic. Although I never had the pleasure of ever meeting Mrs. Boagni, I have heard stories of her dedication to the children and how she affected the lives of those who attended the Clinic.
Mrs. Boagni's dedication will be honored again for the upcoming "7th Annual Tribute to Lois Boagni" at the Delta Grand on June 7. This tribute will pay honor to Mrs. Boagni, while serving as a fund raiser for the Clinic. Mrs. Boagni was accustomed to raising funds for the Clinic, not only because it was part of her responsibilities, but because of her love for the children who were in need of the Clinic's services.
Kenny Meche, a past "graduate" of the Clinic had the inspiration seven years ago to start the annual tribute to Mrs. Boagni. Each year the tribute has been a success due to the many people who were involved with the many aspects of planning the tributes, but also because of who the benefit is honoring. The most important part of successes of the tribute are the people who purchase tickets and contribute to the benefit. The real success, however, is measured by the joy and excitement in the eyes of the children at the Clinic when they are able to do something for the very first time because of the physical therapy they receive. I still get tears in my eyes when I remember seeing my daughter, Alison, take her first steps several years ago at the age of six.
There are many children who have passed through the doors of the Clinic. Some have entered in wheelchairs and left walking, while others still leave in their wheelchair. Their spirits, however, are strong no matter how they leave. The doors of the Clinic have been opened to those in need for the past 40 years. Their doors will continue to be opened for those who need now and for the future children who will need because of the generous and caring nature of our community. Patty Richard continues the work of Mrs. Boagni, while Susan Thompson continues the work of Herb Daly in providing physical therapy to the children. As a parent who has seen her young child evolve with the physical therapy she receives at the Clinic, I thank those who have played a part in the Clinic's history and success.
