Help for our sweet baby boy James

This is a difficult story for us to tell... As many of you know our son James came unexpectedly on July 6, born at 28 weeks gestation and has been in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) since then, first at McMaster Children's Hospital and now at North York General in Toronto. We have been by James's side for 85 days straight and haven't been home since his birth. He is the joy of our life and is cute as a button. Unfortunately, 5 weeks into James's life we received some devastating news that James suffered bilateral brain damage referred to as PVL (periventricular leukomalacia). We were told he almost certainly will develop cerebral palsy, the degree to which they cannot be sure at this stage. As any parent can imagine, Chris and I have been on an emotional roller coaster these past few months, to say the least, filled with anger, devastation, sadness and fear, but also filled with hope.

We have spent countless hours researching the best possible treatments for James to give him the best chance of a fulfilling life and came across a treatment called the Anat Baniel Method. This method is based on the amazing concept of neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to heal itself, through movement. This treatment style requires multiple daily/weekly treatments which are not covered by insurance or the government and likely will cost in the range of $700-$900 per week, at least at the start and the sooner we start treatment the better results we can expect to find hopefully. We are also giving serious consideration to travelling to San Rafael, California to see Anat Baniel herself for consultation and treatment once it is safe for James to travel.

Those of you who know us know that we very rarely ever ask anyone for help, especially financial help, so this is very difficult for us. We have had so many friends and family contact us with messages of support asking if there is anything they can do. We are humbly asking those that are able and willing or those who can empathize with our story to donate towards the cost of treatments for our sweet son James. We are not sure what the future holds for him but we are hopeful that with positivity, ambition, perserverence and love, we can provide the best possible life for our son.

We most greatly and overwhelmingly appreciate your support, donations and if you would share our story with your network.

With much love, Sharyn and Chris xo