Posted Thursday, November 8, 2012--10:00 p.m.

What if your 2-1/2-year-old couldn't walk or couldn't talk?
What if he or she had countless medical problems? And what if.... you didn't know why?

Liam Chappell's grandmother Tami says, "If we had a diagnosis, we would have a plan and an action. Right now, we don't have that." His mother, Brittney, adds, "It gets a little frustrating because people ask a lot of questions, and I don't really have a lot of answers as to why it's happening or what we can do.....or the outcome of if he's ever going to walk, talk, do any of those things that some of us take for granted.."

There were complications and an emergency c-section at childbirth, but doctors aren't really sure if that's why Liam has so many medical problems. He has been hospitalized 20 to 25 times since birth, and has been through test after test, yet still no answers.

When she can afford it, Brittney takes Liam to Communication Innovations in Fitchburg for intensive occupational and physical therapy...
As he struggles to walk on a treadmill, being supported by a harness system, he briefly starts to cry, then pushes on with a smile....and a wave.

He's making progress. For example, the therapists at Communication Innovations say that now Liam can manage his walker independently. He also seems to be trying to talk. The words just don't come out yet.

Grandmother Tami, and everyone else, admires his determination. "He's a strong kid, and never gives up. He's a fighter...he's a really true fighter."

Despite all of his medical problems, get to know Liam and his story...like thousands have on the Liam's Leaps and Bounds Facebook page...
and you can't help but be inspired by his determination, in the face of what has to be aggravation..

Brittney says, "He's taught me to never give up...and to keep pushing until we get answers--just to see the good in things. Grandmother Tami adds, "He is determined...and one day he's going to be just like any other child. Every day's a new day. You know, you look and hope and dream that somebody knows what it is and can help Liam. Until then, he's Liam, and he makes us smile no matter what he does."

These tests and procedures are expensive, and the family could use some help covering the costs. If you would like to contribute you can do so at this link: Liam's Leaps and Bounds