Newsletter
January 2026
We put our heart in everything we do.
A New Year, A Fresh Start: Getting Started on the Right Foot
Hello, 2026
The start of a new year always carries a certain energy. Our minds are filled partly with past reflection, and partly with anticipation of what's to come. It's the year's natural pause point, a moment to look back at where we've been, and more importantly a moment to look ahead and decide where we're going next.
Reflect Before You Rush
Before diving head on into what's next, take a moment to think about what the past year brought. The wins, the lessons, the challenges, and the growth. They all matter. Reflection isn't about dwelling on the past but more so analyzing what worked and what didn't. Let this insight guide you in your decisions in the year to come.
Set Clear Intentions
Goals give us direction, a road map to conquer whatever journey we find ourselves on as the new year begins, but intentions give purpose to those goals. Rather than being so caught up with chasing outcomes, first decide what values you want to lead with and let your goals be reflective of that. Doing new things or creating new routines can be hard, but when you are intentional about your goals, they are much easier to integrate into every day life.
Start Small, Build Momentum
One of the biggest mistakes you can make at the first of the year is to change everything all at once. Sustainable progress is built through small, repeatable actions. Prioritize one or two intentions, and commit to doing them well. Momentum follows clarity, not pressure.
Highlights & Happenings
Sensory Friendly Day at the Frontiers of Flight Museum
Saturday, January 31, 2026
The Frontiers of Flight museum will be hosting a sensory friendly experience fit for kids of all ages and abilities. From 9am-12pm they will put on a sensory friendly show that will include fun science experiments and take home crafts. Admission is free with registration.
Reserve your spot using this link:
Sensory Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese
February 1st and 1st Sunday of every month
Once a month, Chuck E. Cheese hosts sensory Sundays where they dim the lights and reduce the noise to welcome children with higher sensory sensitivities.
For dates, times, and locations, go to Chuck E. Cheese's website:
Wolfforth Farmers Market- Wolfforth, TX
Every Saturday, Year Round
Join your community at a family and pet friendly farmers market. Enjoy a full day of shopping on their 3 acres of dedicated space. The farmers market is open from 10:00am-2:00pm, and hosts over 100 local vendors.
More Info Here:
Longview World of Wonders Museum, Longview, TX
Open Thurs/ Sun 2pm-6pm and Fri/Sat 10am-6pm
Longview World of Wonders is a hands on children's discovery center that strives to give kids the opportunity to imagine, create and explore in a hands on educational; environment.
Reserve your spot with this link:
Spotlight on PPECC
From VIVA's Own Lubbock PPECC
The Lubbock location was filled with holiday cheer this season thanks to our Angel Tree program. Patients were “adopted” by employees, visiting therapists from partner companies, generous community members, and even a few parents, all coming together to make the season extra special. The celebration wrapped up with a joyful Christmas party where our kids opened gifts, shared smiles, and truly felt the magic of the holidays. It was a beautiful reminder of how much love and community surround our patients.
Flu & RSV Season: How to Protect Your Child
As flu and RSV season approaches, families of medically fragile children often have extra concerns, and for good reason. Children with chronic conditions, respiratory needs, or weakened immune systems may be at higher risk for complications from common respiratory viruses. The good news is that with proactive steps and the right support, you can significantly reduce your child’s risk.
What Are Flu & RSV
Influenza (flu) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are highly contagious viruses that affect the respiratory system. While many children recover with mild symptoms, others, especially infants and children with complex medical needs may experience more serious illness.
Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Child
- Practice good hand hygiene: Frequent handwashing and hand sanitizer use are simple but powerful tools.
- Limit exposure: Avoid crowded spaces when possible and keep your child away from anyone showing signs of illness.
- Clean and disinfect regularly: Toys, medical equipment, and high-touch surfaces should be cleaned often.
- Watch for early symptoms: Fever, cough, congestion, increased work of breathing, or changes in feeding can be early signs. Early intervention matters.
How We Help in Home Health & PPECC Settings
Our pediatric home health nurses and PPECC staff follow strict infection control protocols to protect every child in our care. From daily health screenings to enhanced cleaning procedures and close monitoring, your child’s safety is always our top priority.
We’re Here for You
Flu and RSV season can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Whether your child receives care at home or in our PPECC, our team is here to support your family with education, prevention strategies, and compassionate care every step of the way.
If you have questions about flu or RSV prevention, or if you notice changes in your child’s health, please reach out to your care team right away. Together, we can help keep your child safe and healthy this season.
Resources
VIVA Pediatrics Resources
In an effort to help our families, we constantly strive to provide them with relevant and helpful resources and information.
Texas Star Kids
The Texas’ Star Kids mandate threatens the lives of our weakest and most vulnerable little citizens. Join us in standing up for those who have no voice.
The Parker Lee Project
The Parker Lee Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families of children with medical needs obtain the necessary supplies & equipment, education, and support they need. While most supplies are covered by insurance, some are not, or not enough supplies are provided.
Thrive Magazine
Need Resources for your child with special needs? Thrive Magazine shares resources and stories of other families in the DFW area who are living and thriving with special needs.
“Happiness is the richest thing we will ever own.”
-Donald Duck