Author: Julie Shimkus

This is Allen Shimkus, age 5. His diagnosis: Agenesis of the corpus callosum, seizures, legally blind.

ACC is a rare birth defect (congenital disorder) in which there is a complete or partial absence of the corpus callosum. It occurs when the corpus callosum, the band of white matter connecting the two hemispheres in the brain, fails to develop normally.

Allen NEEDS PT, OT, AND SPEECH THERAPY to teach his brain to do everything from chewing food to walking. Medicaid helps pay for all of his therapies, specialist appointments in Little Rock, the many PCP appointments, emergency helicopter and Ambulence rides, MRI’s, CT scans, his dentist, diapers, and all of his much needed medications.

My 5 year old son Allen (pictured here) can not dress himself, feed himself, walk or even speak, but he has the potential to do all!!!! Thanks to Medicaid, a huge part of my son’s health, therapy, and way of living. Thank you to everyone that has helped Allen on his long journey.