Meet Ethan, our son and brother and an inspiration to everyone who knows him. Born in February 2008, Ethan came into the world with two rare conditions – Infantile Myofibromatosis and a Dandy-Walker Cyst. From these, he developed a long list of secondary conditions. Ethan is fed through a tube. He is non-mobile, non-verbal, and needs total care for all his daily life activities.

Ethan is also a survivor. He spent his first four months in hospital. He underwent frequent chemotherapy sessions as a baby and has had 20 surgeries so far. He has a hard time fighting viruses and needs longer than most kids to recover from them. He's been to the hospital many, many times in his life and sees his team of specialists regularly.

Despite all these challenges, Ethan is a happy 4th grade student who loves spending time with his classmates and enjoys learning, math, music and electronics. He also loves social outings and trips.

We're buying a modified side-entry van so Ethan can have more opportunities for social activities and family outings, and to make it easier to get to his appointments. The conversion of the van costs roughly $33,000. March of Dimes Canada is generously donating $8,200 and we hope to raise the remaining $25,000.

Ethan has taught us so much since he came into our lives – not just how to care for someone with complex medical needs but how to look at the world differently, how to not take the small wonders for granted, how to laugh at silly jokes, how strong and fascinating the human body is to undergo such difficult experiences and still come out on top, and how to smile at adversity.

This modified van will be life-changing for Ethan and for us, and will help us bring more normalcy to his world. We are thankful for any donations, and all amounts are gratefully accepted. If you prefer to send an Interac e-transfer or mail a cheque, please contact me at [e-mail editado].


All the best,
Ethan, Clayton, Tanja and Lorelei