Luca’s Story
In our world, we celebrate inchstones — the small but mighty steps that take a lot of work, heart, and perseverance.
Luca was born with Down syndrome, and at just six weeks old, we received another life-changing diagnosis: he was profoundly Deaf in both ears. That news was an even bigger shock than the Down syndrome diagnosis. We suddenly found ourselves navigating a world we knew very little about — audiology appointments, testing, and an entirely new vocabulary of terms and technology.
Through extensive testing at Boys Town here in Nebraska, we began exploring whether Luca might be a candidate for cochlear implants. Then, at six months old, we got our third surprise — Luca was diagnosed with bilateral cochlear nerve deficiencies, meaning the nerves that carry sound from the inner ear to the brain are abnormal, most likely underdeveloped.
It’s an incredibly rare dual diagnosis — a one in eight million diagnosis. To say Luca is unique is an understatement!
It was a devastating discovery, but also one that deepened our faith. Against the odds, Luca was still a candidate for cochlear implants — though the outcomes were completely unknown.
The Way Forward
Today, more than two and a half years later, we know that Luca does have some access to sound — but it’s not crisp or clear like what we hear. This means spoken language will always be challenging, and Luca will rely primarily on sign language to communicate.
Even with these challenges, Luca continues to make remarkable progress. He’s pulling to stand, taking steps with his walker, and building strength and balance every single day. He attends multiple therapies each week — physical, occupational, and speech — where he works hard to build skills that most of us never have to think about.
Every inch forward is a victory — one that comes from hours of practice, resilience, and pure determination.
Why A Service Dog
A service dog will give Luca the confidence and independence he deserves. Beyond companionship, a service dog can help with safety, mobility, and emotional regulation, offering grounding support when the world feels overwhelming.
It’s a partnership that will expand Luca’s world — helping him navigate safely, feel secure, and build deeper connections through trust and comfort.
Luca teaches us daily that progress isn’t measured in leaps, but in inches. Pulling up. Self-feeding. Signing a new word. Taking steps with his walker. Each moment is a small miracle — one that reminds us how extraordinary the ordinary can be.
Thank you for being part of Luca’s story and helping us take the next step — toward a future filled with connection, confidence, and unconditional love.
