DeMari Carero just celebrated his 13th birthday. For most kids, becoming a teenager is a rite of passage. For DeMari, it’s the latest way he has defied the odds.
DeMari was born with hydrocephalus, resulting in a variety of health complications – yet he continues to beat the obstacles in front of him. He’s one of the more than 30 kids who live in our Transitional Care Unit, which provides care for children with medical complexities in a home-like environment.
“The care he gets is amazing. The staff is very caring, understanding and they just love them some DeMari,” said his great aunt and guardian, Keya Nathan. “He loves the staff too. When he sees them and smiles, I know he's in great hands.”
DeMari goes out to public school during the week. When he comes back home, he spends time with his friends in the TCU. He loves music, especially when the music therapist comes and he can bang a drum or shake a tambourine. He also likes to be read to and enjoys watching movies with the other TCU residents.
“DeMari is the most cuddly person. His personality is unmatched. He’s a very sweet kid,” added his great aunt. “He's not able to do what other kids his age can do but he appreciates the company of others around him.”
His friends and care team take great joy in being with him too.
“DeMari lights up a room. He’s always smiling. That’s my favorite thing about caring for him,” said Dr. Stacy Coleman, director of pediatric long-term care in the TCU.
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