Luke inspires others by overcoming adversity and giving back
“They don’t just treat the child, they really treat the whole family. ”
– Ali, Luke's mom
In 2023, 10-year-old Luke was injured playing football at his school in Los Banos. His parents brought him to Valley Children’s just in time, as Luke had punctured his small intestine and soon became septic. Luke had emergency surgery and was in the Valley Children’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) for a week.
He had a complicated PICU stay, requiring intubation as his body struggled with fevers and infection. But as his mom, Ali shares, “The people at Valley Children’s are like angels. They don’t just treat the child, they really treat the whole family.”
Luke eventually recovered from those complications and was able to start physical therapy, but he started to lose mobility. He was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a condition in which the body attacks itself and, in Luke’s case, can cause nerve damage. Luke lost the ability to walk and began using a wheelchair.
Luke was then transferred to Valley Children’s Rehab unit, where he stayed for one month. His mom tells everyone, “PICU saved Luke’s life. Rehab brought Luke back to life.”
Luke smiles with his family
Luke’s family appreciated the convenience of bringing their trailer and staying right on the Valley Children’s Hospital campus. For his younger brother Grant, spending the holidays at the hospital turned out to be a memorable experience. From celebrating with noisemakers to enjoying the playground, to bowling outings and even joining Luke’s rehabilitation sessions, every day felt like a new adventure.
During their time on the Madera campus, the nearby Gunner Ranch community trails opened. Luke incorporated riding an adaptive bike into his therapy sessions while Grant tackled the ninja courses along the trail. Exploring the trails together became a nightly family tradition, creating moments of joy and bonding amid their journey of healing.
Today, at 11 years old, Luke is able to do his physical therapy locally in Los Banos. Luke has appreciated the support of his peers at school. “My friends ask me to do wheelies all the time,” he shares.
Luke continues to visit Valley Children’s for occupational and physical therapy, remaining an active participant in the hospital’s Adaptive Sports Program. Through this program, he has embraced opportunities that have enriched his life—traveling to events, engaging in various sports, meeting inspiring figures like Derek Carr and building lasting friendships. Thanks to the generosity of donors, all of these experiences have been provided at no cost to Luke’s family. Among the many activities, Luke’s favorite is playing on the Fresno Wheelers basketball team.
Beyond being a participant, Luke has also embraced the role of a philanthropist. In 2024, Luke, alongside his family and friends, raised $5,000 to support Valley Children’s PICU and Rehabilitation Department. Patients like Luke, who give back and inspire others, highlight the profound impact of the work we do every day.
Luke presents a check to Valley Children's PICU and Rehab units
More About the Adaptive Sports Program
Valley Children’s Adaptive Sports Program provides free recreational and athletic experiences for children with physical disabilities or mobility impairments. Through hard work and determination, participants learn it is possible to participate in athletics, exceed expectations and achieve their dreams. Learn more about Adaptive Sports >>