Kai Bradley
Kai’s Remarkable Recovery After Rare Brain Surgery
Six-year-old Kai Bradley’s energy is infectious as he breezes through physical therapy, tackling lunges, planks, and squats with a grin that belies his recent ordeal. Last year, he underwent surgery to remove a sizable brain mass and faced the daunting challenge of relearning to walk.
Kai, known for his radiant smile and spirited personality, has always been a bundle of joy, and always ready to bring laughter to his physical therapists.
“He has always been a very happy and energetic little boy,” said his mom, Maribell Cruz of Tamarac. “He loves to play and is a big fan of Power Rangers, dinosaurs, and cars.”
Life took an unexpected turn when Kai’s family noticed him slowing down and struggling with his left foot. Initially dismissed as a playful quirk, it soon became clear that something more serious was at play. A video capturing his unsteady gait prompted a prompt visit to Broward Health Coral Springs' Emergency Department.
“It was a busy day in the ER, but it was clear that triage seemed very concerned about Kai’s condition, and we were rushed off for a CT scan,” Maribell said. “When we got into the exam room afterward, a doctor and two nurses were there waiting for us, and I knew something was really wrong.”
The scan revealed a cavernoma—a rare, benign cluster of blood vessels in his brain. Due to its size and complexity, Kai was transferred to Broward Health Medical Center for specialized care.
“You didn’t have to be a doctor to see that something really big was there, even to the naked eye,” Cruz recalled.
Dr. Daniel Klinger, a neurosurgeon, performed a delicate operation to remove the cavernoma. The surgery, lasting five hours, was a success, but Kai faced a tough road to recovery.
Supported by a dedicated medical team and the loving presence of his family, Kai spent 15 days in recovery at Broward Health Medical Center. Despite the challenges, the care and compassion they received made a significant difference.
“We were 110 percent impressed with him [Dr. Klinger], and we are so grateful for him,” Cruz said.
Physical and occupational therapy played a crucial role in Kai’s rehabilitation journey, helping him regain his motor skills and independence. His therapists, like supportive mentors, cheered him on through each milestone.
With each session, Kai’s laughter fills the therapy room, a testament to his resilience and the care he’s received at Broward Health Coral Springs. “Now he won’t stop running around, and you can barely get him to sit down,” Bradley said.
As Kai eagerly looks forward to rejoining kindergarten and playing flag football again, his family remains hopeful for his continued progress, celebrating every moment of his remarkable recovery journey.
Learn More About Neurosciences at Broward Health
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