Miracle of all Miracles
At three years of age, Anthony’s parents communicated with him through sign language.
“We taught Anthony sign language because even at age three he wasn't speaking,” says his mother Lori. “Jason and I didn't know if he was ever going to be able to communicate with us verbally, so we slowly learned, and in turn we taught him. Even though there was no verbal speech progress, Bloorview believed in the use of sign language, giving a child the confidence to try verbal speech. He attended speech and language therapy and miracle of all miracles, he started speaking.”
Five-year-old Anthony was born with Spina Bifida, and has had more than 15 surgeries. His team at Bloorview consists of a physician, nurse, physiotherapist, speech language pathologist, child life specialist, social worker, occupational therapist and Ricky the Clown. This team helps set goals with his family. They meet regularly to share progress and make treatment decisions. They prepare Anthony for tests and procedures, and help him cope when he has to stay in hospital. They teach him and play with him. They’re his biggest fans and greatest advocates.
“Anthony’s strength and progress is in large part owed to the exceptional care and dedication given by all of his therapists and doctors at Bloorview,” says Lori. “Bloorview is the only treatment center that we trust unconditionally to care for him. One of the most comforting things about Bloorview is their dedication to aftercare. The doctors, therapists and amazing social workers work along side the family through their heartaches as well as medical diagnoses and achievements. Medication and therapy only treat the child’s diagnoses, treating the emotional trials and getting the family to look forward to the next accomplishment for their child is an aspect that greatly needs to be recognized,” Lori says.
Anthony started walking again in May 2008, after four months of rehab at Bloorview. When he grows up, he wants to become a neurosurgeon and play hockey with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
