Children with limited mobility experienced their first independent rides on May 19 at the GoBabyGo event hosted by Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital in Wheaton, Illinois. The annual gathering provided 21 pediatric patients with custom-modified, battery-powered toy cars tailored to support their unique therapeutic and mobility needs.
The event is designed to help children who are unable to walk or crawl—and are too young for motorized wheelchairs—move, explore, and play alongside peers. A team of therapists and volunteers from across Northwestern Medicine adapted each car with features such as specialized seating, hand controls, five-point harnesses, and head supports.
“GoBabyGo is more than a single day. It creates a life-changing moment for both children and their families,” said Stephanie Salentine, manager of rehabilitation services at Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital. “For many of these kids, this is their first experience with independent mobility. Seeing the confidence and excitement as they take that first drive is incredibly meaningful for families and care teams alike.”
Parents described the emotional impact of seeing their children move independently for the first time. “I was not expecting this. Not at all. This is beyond words. It truly is,” said Steven Kosriog of Carol Stream, who attended with his son Jack. “There’s no greater feeling than seeing your son have that independence, especially the independence that he looks for and we look for in him as parents. It means the world.”
Since 2015, Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital has hosted GoBabyGo events supported by physical and occupational therapists from across Northwestern Medicine who volunteer to build the cars along with community members.
This year’s volunteers included Jerome Simmons of Joliet whose son Glenn received a modified car last year: “Last year, it was so much fun. Glenn enjoyed his vehicle so much. We were so happy and overjoyed just to see him get to play and enjoy himself,” Simmons said. “This year, I brought volunteers with me. I’ll be here every year to participate and help increase mobility for other kids.”
Founded in 1972, Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital offers rehabilitation programs addressing brain injury, neuromuscular conditions, orthopaedic issues, pediatric care, spinal cord injuries and stroke treatment; it recently achieved Magnet designation for nursing excellence—a recognition held by few freestanding rehabilitation hospitals nationwide according to the official website.
