Raising Money for Brooks Medical Needs

As many of you know, Brooks was born two months premature due to an absence of fetal movement in the womb. Brooks suffered extensive damage throughout his brain from the lack of oxygen he was receiving. The damage caused to Brooks brain has recently led to his diagnosis of cerebral palsy- a movement impairment disorder.

One significant outcome from Brooks diagnosis has been the delay in his physical milestones. Brooks has been attending physical therapy sessions for several months but unfortunately has seen very little progress with his development. With the uncertainty of whether Brooks will walk one day, Ian and Katlyn have decided to start intensive therapy.

In the first two years of life, an injured brain has the ability to rewire itself- this is referred to as neuroplasticity. This means that even though Brooks is showing very little progress with his physical development, there is still a chance his brain can find new neurological pathways and learn to perform physical movements correctly. Through practice, physical therapy can aid in this skill development.

Over the past few decades there has been a shift away from traditional physical therapy and many individuals with movement impairments are turning to intensive therapy for help. Intensive therapy focuses on teaching motor skills strictly through repetition and proper alignment. This has shown great success in improving movement, posture and balance for individuals affected by neurological disorders. There are only two intensive therapy locations in Canada, one of which is in Calgary- SMILE Therapy Clinic.

Ian and Katlyn want to do everything they can to help Brooks reach his best potential and to hopefully be independent one day. Unfortunately, intensive therapy is expensive. Between Brooks several other medical and therapy appointments each month in Edmonton, intensive therapy will be a big expense for the family to do on their own.

Brooks is currently signed up for a 2-week intensive in December, consisting of daily 2-hour therapy sessions. This will cost a total of $2400. This will be the first of many intensive therapies over Brooks childhood. Ian and Katlyn plan to sign up for at least 2 intensive therapies every year in hopes to see continued development with Brooks motor skills. The price of this therapy will double once Brooks is older and able to endure daily 4-hour sessions rather than just 2-hour sessions. At that time, a 2-week intensive will cost $4800.

For those willing and able to help, our hope is to raise money for the several therapy appointments Brooks will require throughout his childhood. This account will go towards intensive therapy and other therapy/ aids that will assist Brooks in his development.

Thank you for your continued support for Ian, Katlyn, Meredith and Brooks.