For Brittany Salazar, an EMR administrator in the information systems department at Texas County Memorial Hospital, and her husband, Reuben, a Texas County Sheriff’s deputy, their son Ryder is nothing short of a miracle. After enduring multiple miscarriages, Brittany describes Ryder, now four years old, as the answer to countless prayers and a source of immeasurable joy.
“He is our miracle,” Brittany shared. “Every step forward is something we’re incredibly thankful for.”
From early on, Brittany noticed Ryder was developing differently than expected. He experienced delays in crawling, walking and speech. Still, what stood out most was not what he couldn’t do, but how deeply he connected with others.
“He is so loving,” Brittany said. “He interacts with people, tries new things and understands so much more than people realize.”
Ryder’s care journey has been guided by a supportive team close to home. His primary care provider, Whitney Hall, PA at the TCMH Licking Clinic, has been a strong and consistent influence, helping guide Brittany through next steps and resources.
Brittany also worked closely with William Wright, MD, a TCMH family medicine physician specializing in autism and childhood behavioral disorders, to further evaluate Ryder’s developmental needs and access early intervention services.
“Making the diagnosis is the start,” Dr. Wright explained. “Without that, families often can’t access the therapies and treatments that make such a difference. It also helps families understand autism, that these children are experiencing and seeing the world from a different perspective.”
That diagnosis opened the door to critical early interventions and within months, Brittany began to see meaningful change.
“In just six months, he made incredible progress with interventions,” Brittany said. A key part of that progress has been occupational therapy with Kendra Stillwell, a TCMH certified occupational therapy assistant. Through consistent therapy and support, Ryder has made strides in both physical ability and confidence.
“When he first started, he had trouble transitioning between activities and was very hesitant on stairs,” Stillwell explained. “He would go sideways down the stairs and needed support. Now, he confidently goes up and down on his own.”
She also noted improvements in sensory tolerance and overall engagement.
“He used to avoid certain movements, especially anything involving leaning his head back,” Stillwell said. “Now he’ll lay back on a swing and enjoy it. His confidence, especially with stairs and navigating his environment safely is one of the biggest highlights of his progress.”
For Brittany, those milestones are life-changing.
“He wasn’t using stairs before, and now he goes up and down them,” Brittany said. “That kind of progress means everything to us.”
Ryder also participates in early childhood education services in Houston, where he receives speech, occupational and physical therapy. Having access to these services locally has made a significant impact on the family.
“Being able to get those therapies here close to home is huge,” Brittany said. “The resources in our community have made all the difference.”
While Ryder is not yet verbal, Brittany remains hopeful and encouraged. He communicates through gestures, pointing and expressive emotions and continues to grow every day.
“He’s so close,” she said. “He already has his own ways of communicating, and we believe he’ll get there in his own time.”
Stillwell echoed that optimism.
“Ryder continues to show steady progress with consistent therapy and educational support,” Stillwell shared. “His engagement, curiosity and willingness to interact are very positive indicators for continued development over time.”
For the Salazar family, Ryder’s journey is still unfolding, but it is already a story of resilience, support and hope.
“He’s the sweetest little boy,” Stillwell added. “It’s truly a pleasure to work with him.”
“We’ve learned to celebrate every milestone,” Brittney said. “The amazing resources and support from Whitney, Dr. Wright, Kendra and all of Ryder’s therapy and school teams have truly made a difference in his life and our family’s journey.”
If you or someone you know could benefit from Dr. Wright’s expertise in evaluating and supporting children with developmental or behavioral concerns, call 417-967-1251 to learn more or schedule an appointment. For occupational therapy services — including support with sensory processing, daily living skills and developmental milestones — call 417-967-1201. Visit www.tcmh.org for more information about services and resources available at Texas County Memorial Hospital. Our team is here to help patients and families access the care they need, close to home.