Theresa Forthofer is President and Chief Executive Officer of Easter Seals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region and is inspired by how much is possible for a child when early diagnosis and treatment are provided. “There is nothing more inspiring than watching a child do something their parents were told would never be possible,” she says.
Forthofer has seen the power of early intervention in her own family. Her oldest son was diagnosed with Myotonic Dystrophy at age 7. “Because of this,” says Forthofer, “my youngest was diagnosed within days of being born.” Myotonic Dystrophy had a greater impact on her youngest son, but according to Forthofer, he has surpassed everyone’s expectations. “He has even surpassed the abilities of his older brother,” she says. “The sole reason for this is early diagnosis and early intervention.”
Focusing on excellence and innovation, Forthofer feels that Easter Seals therapists are what make the organization unique. “We are constantly striving to improve in all aspects of our work. In addition, we focus on the entire family, not just the child with the disability. This truly enables therapy to be integrated into the child’s daily life so that maximum results are possible,” she explains.
Forthofer wants people to know that early intervention and therapies are a worthy financial investment. She says that investing in these therapies makes good fiscal sense, as many children who receive early diagnosis and treatment will become independent. Without it, they will continue to need support and assistance.
Forthofer has more than 30 years of working with individuals with disabilities. She holds a master’s degree in education and an undergraduate degree in gerontology.
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