Walking Beyond Expectations: Cerenity’s Story

Arnold Cox never expected the physical therapy he received at Good Shepherd Rehabilitation for his shoulder, knee and ankle would become the foundation for something far more significant in his life.

Sometimes, the most meaningful connections form in unexpected ways.

“I love how Good Shepherd helped me achieve my goals, and I wanted the same for my daughter,” Arnold said.

That daughter is Cerenity Cox. At 6 years old, Cerenity has endured more procedures and health challenges than many adults will encounter in their lifetime, including three major heart diseases, strokes and seizures.

Doctors said she might never walk.

Today, through determination and dedicated therapy, she’s defying early predictions.

Small Steps to Big Goals

When Cerenity began inpatient therapy at Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital Emily Howatt Pliskatt Pediatric Unit in Bethlehem, she couldn’t move on her own. Little by little, Cerenity’s team helped her improve.

First, they taught her to sit on her knees. Then, she progressed to walking on her knees. Today, she can move on her own and walk with assistance.

“They said she wasn’t even going to be able to walk ever, so that’s a testament to how good Good Shepherd is,” Arnold said.

Cerenity’s mother, Celeste, added: “I’ve seen what she’s capable of. She’s my walking miracle.”

Continuing Therapy

After completing therapy at the hospital, Cerenity transitioned to outpatient therapy in Allentown.

Initially attending three times a week, she now goes twice weekly. Cerenity sees multiple therapists — including what Arnold affectionately calls the “Dream Team,” who have worked with Cerenity since her first day at Good Shepherd.

“Everyone who deals with Cerenity goes above and beyond,” Arnold said.

A coordinated approach between Good Shepherd, Cerenity’s parents and her public kindergarten ensures she’s constantly working toward her goals, even when not at therapy.

“Whatever we do for her in therapy, we’ll reiterate it at home,” Arnold said.

Tools for Success

Thanks to donor support, various tools have aided Cerenity’s progress.

She uses an iPad to communicate and can identify animals, colors, numbers and words. One of her favorite therapy tools is the Trexo Robotics exoskeleton, which helps her practice walking.

Cerenity also uses a walker provided by Good Shepherd, giving her mobility and independence in different environments.

“Good Shepherd has helped us with everything,” Arnold said. “They work well with her school. They’ve figured out a good game plan to keep her active.”

A Parent’s Dedication

Cerenity’s progress wouldn’t be possible without her parents’ extraordinary commitment. Since the family does not currently have a car, Arnold typically walks and carries Cerenity to therapy.

“I take her to her appointments, no matter snow or rain,” he said.

Celeste is equally dedicated to her daughter’s progress. When it was time to wean Cerenity off her feeding tube, Celeste patiently introduced soft foods like Jell-O and applesauce.

“Now she’s eating shrimp and crab legs,” Celeste said.

Today, she’s helping Cerenity work on lip movements, like blowing kisses and sticking out her tongue, to help her learn to talk. Cerenity is also learning sign language.

A Future of Opportunities

Despite the challenges they’ve faced as a family, Arnold and Celeste are optimistic about Cerenity’s future.

“She’s my little odds-beater,” Celeste said. “I’m so excited and proud to see how far we go. I do know she’s going to walk again. That I do know for sure.”

As Cerenity defies expectations and reaches new milestones, her story stands as a testament to what’s possible when expert care, parental dedication and one little girl’s determination come together.

For the Cox family and Good Shepherd, every victory in Cerenity’s journey is worth celebrating — a reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful progress comes one hard-earned step at a time.