From Early Steps to Confident Reading: Rusch’s Journey

Rusch Kosnik’s story with Joe’s Kids began early — at a time when his parents were simply trying to understand what their son needed and how best to support him.

As an infant, Rusch came to Joe’s Kids for physical therapy. He wasn’t crawling as expected and later struggled with walking and balance. His therapist identified instability in his ankles and helped fit him with supportive braces, giving Rusch the stability he needed to feel secure on his feet. Over time, those early supports allowed him to move with growing confidence — eventually running, climbing, and playing like other children his age.

As Rusch grew, new challenges appeared.

At two years old, he wasn’t yet talking. Virtual services elsewhere weren’t connecting, and his parents worried about how to help him find his voice. At Joe’s Kids, Rusch began one‑on‑one speech therapy, building a relationship that changed everything. Slowly, words came. Communication strengthened. Confidence followed.

When Rusch reached kindergarten, learning challenges — especially with reading — became more noticeable. Once again, Joe’s Kids stepped in early. Through tutoring and literacy support, Rusch worked on phonemic awareness, blending sounds, and building fluency. At first, he was hesitant, unsure, and reluctant to read aloud.

Then came a shift.

Learning became less intimidating — and even fun.

Games became part of each session, and Rusch’s confidence began to shine through. One day, after beating his therapist, Carley, in a reading game, he grinned and said:

“Have you been practicing? You probably should if you don’t want to keep losing.” – Rusch

It was a small moment, but one filled with meaning. Not long ago, reading felt overwhelming. Now, Rusch was stepping forward with newfound confidence — and he wasn’t afraid to show it!

For his parents, Joe’s Kids has been a steady presence through every season of growth.

“Joe’s Kids has been part of Rusch’s journey every step of the way,” his mom, Emily, shared.
“Because of Joe’s Kids, Rusch is confident, capable, and continuing to grow in ways we once worried about.”

One recent moment brought everything full circle. During a visit, Rusch ran into a former physical therapist who had worked with him as a toddler. She watched him running, climbing, and playing — amazed at the progress he had made.

“As a mom, that moment meant everything,” Emily said.

Why Donor Support Matters

Rusch’s journey shows that lasting progress comes from consistent support across a child’s development — care that responds as needs change. Because of caring people like you, Joe’s Kids can offer the specialized therapies and tutoring services children need to grow with confidence and thrive.

Child sponsors make services possible for our kids.  Set up your monthly donation today to help a child like Rusch grow stronger — one step, one word, and one victory at a time. 💙

https://www.joes-kids.org/donate/