Published: 08/07/2026 - 8:00 AM
De Lorbiecki Santiago and her family moved to the Philadelphia area from Tennessee so her son, Kal'El, could receive specialized medical care at CHOP. Kal'El was born with Hirschsprung's disease, a birth defect that impacts the intestines. After several moves and long stretches of travel for treatment, CHOP became the reason the family finally put down roots here.
Back in Tennessee, the family had belonged to a YMCA, so when they arrived, they headed straight for the Ambler Y to transfer their membership. "It benefits our family because my son is able to grow with his Hirschsprung's disease and accomplish goals."
At the Ambler branch, Kal'El spends time in KidZone with Emily, who has taken the time to understand both his medical needs and his Autism. He plays on the outdoor playgrounds, joins in on basketball and swim programs, and, above all, plays basketball every single visit, inspired by his favorite player, Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Miami Heat. The Y's seasonal celebrations, Easter, Christmas, and Halloween, have become another highlight he looks forward to all year.
"Without the Y, we would have struggled to find a way for Kal'El to stay active, meet new friends, and give myself the time to adjust to a new lifestyle in a new state and enjoy the new Y family."
Since settling in, the family has branched out well beyond Ambler, visiting the Rocky Run, Roxborough, Willow Grove, and Springfield Y locations, with plans to keep exploring more branches in the years ahead. For a family that has moved often in search of the right care, the Y has helped make this move feel like the one that finally stuck.
The Y offers a variety of youth programs like basketball instruction and swim lessons. Click the link below to learn more.