Overcoming obstacles and Reaching your dreams!

My son, Sylvain-Nicholas suffers from Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type III. SMA is a genetic condition - the number one genetic killer of children under the age of two, world-wide. It’s described as a neuromuscular disease, in which loss of motor neurons results in the atrophy, or wasting, of the muscles that control walking, sitting, head movement, even swallowing and breathing. The most severe form of the condition, Type 1, has symptoms that appear in infancy; it is generally fatal before the age of two. Those with Type II, III or IV SMA are often able to walk independently, at least for a while - but soon show signs of weakness in their arms and legs.

Initially Sylvain was able to walk, but with the progression of the disease he became confine to his power wheelchair at the age of 14. Sylvain is now 24, and as the disease progress, it is also robbing him slowly of his fine motor skills, which is having an impact on his dream of becoming an artist.

For the average person, you’ve probably never given much thought to the act of reaching over a counter to access something. Simple tasks like getting items from top cabinets, accessing items in a grocery store, using a kitchen, getting in and out of bed or on a couch, and switching off lights come naturally to you. But if you use a wheelchair, you may have some difficulty reaching out for items or even accomplishing some task.

By adding an elevated seat to Sylvain’s new Power wheelchair it will take Sylvain’s independence to a whole new level. It will permit him to access items at a grocery store, reach over a counter, use a debit machine, and even order coffee at the coffee shop. Essentially, this additional piece of equipment will help him live independently both at home and outside in the world. We have funding for the new powerchair  but need to add an elevated seat to it.

Computer Assistive Technology (CAT) has drastically improved employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. In addition, we are trying to upgrade his computer with assistive devices, software and hardware that will permit Sylvain to pursue a career in the arts and animation.

Please consider donating if you can and we would appreciate if you could share this Gofundme page so we can reach more people and achieve our goal.

Thank you
Marie-Anne 
xo