Lucas Can Do It All

When he was just 3, Lucas was diagnosed with quadriplegic dystonic cerebral palsy (CP), a permanent brain disorder that can affect muscle tone, movement and coordination.

In 2018, Lucas was receiving care at another Chicago medical facility when his physician, Sue Mukherjee, M.D., moved to Shriners Children's Chicago. Soon after, Lucas and his family joined her. “Right after the first appointment, I knew we were in good hands. Everyone at Shriners Children’s really listens to you. You are not in a rush and you feel heard and cared for,” said Lucas' mom, Lisa.

Lucas’ type of cerebral palsy limits his ability to move his arms and legs like a typical kid. He continues to see Dr. Mukherjee and other Shriners Children’s staff in rehabilitation services department. He has received therapy at the hospital, and braces from the in-house pediatric orthotic and prosthetic services team, to help him become as independent as possible. Despite some difficulties, such as not being able to write on his own, Lucas, now 14, is the embodiment of putting his mind to something and achieving goals. The friendly teen is even known as the “mayor” of his town in suburban Chicago.