Theo’s Story: Embracing Possibilities, One Bite at a Time

Theo is around 20 months old, his world is filled with the gentle hum of toy trains and the so

roll of miniature cars—simple joys that match his independent, sweet nature. Yet while other

toddlers his age eagerly sampled new foods, Theo clung to the comfort of breast milk alone. For

his mother, Evelyn, a first time mom who worked from home and often questioned every

parenting decision, this feeding struggle brought waves of uncertainty and guilt. She wondered

if she was doing enough, if she’d ever see Theo embrace the richness of flavors and textures that

lay just out of reach.

The summer of 2024 was a turning point. Theo struggled with even the simplest attempts at

drinking from a straw or spoon. He would cough or spit up, leaving Evelyn torn between worry

and frustration. She wondered if other children’s interactions—maybe watching peers drink

from a straw—could encourage him, but attempts to help Theo mimic such behaviors only led to

choking and more anxiety. High chairs became sources of anger and tears, and Evelyn wrestled

with how best to guide Kaiden, unsure of what steps would truly help him move forward.

When Evelyn and her husband learned about the Star Center Foundation, guided by a

pediatrician’s recommendation, they turned to its founder, Esther Verbovszky, for help. In

contrast to stuffy clinics that focus solely on insurance and rigid protocols, Esther’s first action

was to listen and support. Even before discussing coverage, she offered tips and suggestions,

texting after hours and providing hands-on guidance that would bring a sense of calm to the

whole family.

Esther’s approach was never about forcing Theo to “just eat.” Instead, she embraced what

Evelyn called “food adventure therapy.” She encouraged messiness, letting Theo play with food

and explore textures in ways that challenged preconceived notions of what mealtime should look

like. She introduced specialized cups and straws that controlled fluid flow, ensuring Theo could

learn to sip and swallow at his own pace. Esther didn’t just focus on Theo—she reassured

Evelyn, acknowledging her mom guilt and offering gentle reminders that progress takes time,

and that parents deserve understanding, not judgment.

Before long, Theo began to make strides. Each day brought small milestones: from gagging or

coughing at the slightest texture to enjoying a bit of chocolate, from resisting cups to mastering

sips without sputtering. Evelyn noticed the weight lifting from her shoulders as Theo’s confidence grew.

Within a few months, he was not only eating and drinking more comfortably, but also starting to work on speech—

babbling, grunting, and showing the first glimpses of a little voice finding its way.

This journey wasn’t just about Theo’s feeding progress. It was about redefining Evelyn’s role as a

parent and shedding the guilt that had weighed her down. Esther’s empathy and openness made

it possible for Evelyn to be an active participant in Theo’s therapy, rather than a bystander.

Unlike traditional clinics where parents are sidelined, here Evelyn found guidance, education,

and partnership. Esther’s out-of-the-box thinking and relentless dedication assured Evelyn that

she was not alone—and that, in fact, many families face similar struggles.

Now, every successful bite is cause for celebration. Evelyn no longer feels isolated or burdened

by shame. Instead, she’s grateful, relieved, and eager to recommend Esther to anyone in need.

Without the Star Center Foundation, Evelyn’s insurance wouldn’t cover these services, and she

might have had to stop therapy altogether. Instead, Theo is exploring a world of flavors and

textures, making remarkable progress in less than six months. The relief and joy radiate through

their whole family.

For donors who make the Star Center Foundation’s work possible, Evelyn has a message: “Esther

goes above and beyond to help. We are not just a number to her. She truly cares about Theo. It’s adorable

when we go to the office, Theo smiles and is happy to be there!” She knows firsthand how

transformative these services can be. Without them, Theo’s journey might have been far more

difficult, and her own sense of empowerment as a mother much harder to find. Thanks to Esther

and the Foundation, they’ve discovered that mealtime can be an adventure, not a source of

anxiety. They’ve learned that support, empathy, and creativity can turn what once felt

impossible into something beautifully achievable.