Donor-supported tools transform pediatric therapy in Corbin

There’s no feeling quite like watching a child take their first steps. For parents, it’s a milestone that marks a child’s growing independence and opens the door to new possibilities. 

Amanda Tolliver, a physical therapist specializing in pediatrics in Corbin, witnesses those moments often. 

“Seeing parents light up when their child does something new is so fulfilling,” Amanda said. 

Alongside occupational and speech therapists, she supports children with a wide range of diagnoses – from developmental delays and autism to cerebral palsy and other neurological disorders. 

“Usually if there's a developmental delay, like there’s a child not rolling, sitting, standing, walking or they’re not talking as expected, we’ll get referrals from pediatricians and doctors in our area,” Amanda explained. 

The team’s work is centered on helping children improve their balance, mobility, coordination, communication and sensory regulation – all skills that allow them to participate more fully in everyday life. Innovative pediatric therapy equipment, provided through donor generosity, expands what this treatment can look and feel like for children. Much of the equipment is shared across physical, occupational and speech therapies, maximizing its impact for both patients and caregivers. 

Interactive balance tools guide practice with stability and coordination. Fine motor games support grasping and cause-and-effect learning. Sensory equipment, including weighted toys and calming tools, help children regulate and feel more comfortable during sessions.  

One of the most significant additions has been an interactive projection system that offers dozens of movement-based games, supporting visual tracking and group play. It’s especially helpful for children who may feel anxious or hesitant in traditional therapy settings. 

Additionally, it works to improve balance. 

“Instead of me having to physically hold a child up, the body weight supported harness allows them to stand independently and participate,” Amanda said. “That independence is huge for the child and for the family.” 

Philanthropy has also played a role in maintaining the space itself. After a fire nearly a decade ago, donor support helped rebuild and fully outfit the pediatric therapy area. In the years that have followed, continued generosity has allowed the team to keep adapting and growing, even with limited financial resources. 

“We don’t have a huge budget for new equipment,” Amanda said. “But having this support for new learning tools gives us more ways to meet kids’ needs. It helps them make better functional gains and supports families in ways that last.” 

Each gift from the community becomes another pathway for a child to try. Over time, those efforts add up to major milestones. 

So, when a child does take those first steps – steady or uncertain, but entirely their own – Amanda is able to see the full picture of practice, patience and community support that makes progress possible. 

“Being able to ask donors for help, and have them come through again and again, means everything.”