Toni Careccia is a Family Trainee with LEND Pittsburgh and the mother of a 4-year-old girl, Hazel. Her experience as a parent advocate began the morning of her daughter's six month appointment. Toni noticed a difference in her child's development and requested an evaluation through Early Intervention. By eight months of age, they were immersed in the world of therapy, participating in Early Intervention home services, outpatient therapy, multiple intensity programs at The Children's Institute of Pittsburgh and hippotherapy.

In 2019, her daughter's initial diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy was changed. After a series of extensive tests, the results have not provided an answer or reason for her child’s symptoms. During this difficult time, Toni realized how great the need was for parent and caregiver support. Toni submitted a proposal to The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh to create a support group and that group continues to meet regularly. Toni has organized fundraisers for Cerebral Palsy awareness month and has created teams for “Steptember”, another fundraiser for Cerebral Palsy.  She has also participated in fundraisers for her daughters hippotherapy program, “Horses with Hope.” 

Toni and Hazel can often be found cooking or painting together while their home is filled with the sound of Hazel's favorite music - Italian opera, in particular The Three Tenors or Hamilton. 

As a LEND trainee, Toni hopes to further her knowledge in disability law and advocacy, provide support and resources to families in need. and to implement change within the community to become more inclusive.