Michael’s story

Hi. My name is Michael and I am a 10 year daredevil.

You may have seen me speeding around Grandview with my walker or running around near my house in Ajax. When I was 1, I was diagnosed with (cerebral palsy and a profound hearing loss. But that hasn’t stopped me from being active and having fun. 

Grandview Children’s Centre has helped me get the equipment I need to be as independent as possible. I got my first walker when I was about 2 and have gone through a few since then. I love walking super fast and having people tell me to slow down! Sometimes even my brother and sister can’t catch me! My therapists sometimes worry that I am going too fast but I am pretty careful.

 I have used my walker to participate in many sports activities at school including folk dancing, track and field, gym class and soccer. Earlier this year I discovered a way to use my walker at the skateboard park with my brother and our friends from school. While they use their boards, I go up the ramps and down into the bowls sitting on the seat of my walker. Lots of people stop and stare, not because of my disability but because they have never seen anyone do this before.
 
Grandview has helped me and my family in so many other ways. I had a great time in kindergarten at Campbell Children’s School doing tons of fun activities while getting the therapy I needed. I have participated in many Recreational Programs through Grandview like Summer Camps, Martial Arts, Yoga and Bike Groups. My mom even comes to Grandview for the mothers support group. Our family feels very lucky to have the help and support of the wonderful staff at Grandview Children’s Centre.

These days I am living life like most other 10 year olds. I go to a regular school and I am in Grade 5. My favourite subjects are gym, recess and lunch! I do homework when I have to but would rather be playing video games, hanging out with friends or shopping. On the weekends I like to go to amusement parks, the mall or to parties. My favourite thing is big, scary rides like the roller coasters at Canada’s Wonderland!

In the future I hope to go to college to study architecture or design but for now I’m happy finding new challenges and adventures to try.