Toronto Children's Hospital is a key partner of Paralympic hopeful's journey
The right supports can make all the difference for kids with disabilities and their families.
Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital is aiming to shape the future of disability health care by creating a new standard of excellence in pediatric disability care, increasing access to care through research and education, and advancing disability inclusion and health equity.
As the largest fundraising campaign in Canadian history for pediatric disability, Together We Dare is raising $100 million to establish Holland Bloorview's Centre for Excellence in Childhood Disability to drive world-leading care, unlock discoveries through research, and build a more inclusive world.
Meet Marcus
Marcus is a prime example of why Holland Bloorview's mission is so important. When he was just three years old, Marcus was diagnosed with a rare condition called Acute Flaccid Myelitis, which is a serious and sudden onset of weakness in the limbs.
Over the next three months, Marcus received care as an inpatient at Holland Bloorview. Between the physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and spirit-boosting activities (like the hospital's infamous therapeutic clowns!), Marcus relearned how to walk using a knee-ankle-foot orthosis.
Eleven years later, Marcus remains a Holland Bloorview client as he pursues his dream to play sledge-hockey for Team Canada in the 2030 Paralympic Games.
Access to the right orthotic devices and rehabilitation got him walking again, but it was the sense of inclusion and belonging provided by accessible sport that gave him the strength and confidence to pursue his passions and play competitively.
The Holland Bloorview impact
Marcus is one of many Ontario youth who are living and thriving with a disability, proving that progress is possible.
As you cheer on Canada's athletes at the Paralympic Games, think about what sort of healthcare and accommodations helped them pursue athletic excellence, and dare to reimagine what's possible.
Whether you're helping fundraise through the Capes for Kids campaign or donating to Together We Dare, your contributions to Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital help prove what's possible when kids are free to dream, play, and belong – no matter who they are or where they live.
Learn more by visiting the Together We Dare website.
