One of the things that makes me so proud to be an Orangevillian is the way that we rally to help the people in our community. Everything from providing relief to families that have suffered loss in a fire or another sudden tragedy in their lives to the people of the community rallying to find a lost dog in -40 degree weather. We are a community that stands by our people, that help wherever we can, and show support to those who need it.
So with all of that being said, let me introduce you to Logan.
Logan is a 10 year old Orangeville boy who was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at the age of 1. Right from day one, Logan has been a fighter – he was born 14 weeks premature and weighed 1 pound 5 ounces. He spent his first 4 1/2 months of life in the Neonatal ICU where he undertook 4 surgeries. When he was strong enough to come home, his fight still continued. He still required oxygen and nursing care for a long time after he came home. Logan’s family celebrated all of the wins that they did have but still struggled with his mobility. He had consistent physiotherapy treatments as well as botox treatments and casting. Shortly after starting school, it was discovered that Logan had moderate Autism. After receiving this diagnosis, Logan began one on one therapy with Erin Oaks Kids IBI Team (Intensive Behaviour Intervention). It is noted on Logan’s Hope Go Fund Me page that this is where there really started to see Logan succeed and become much stronger. In April 2013, Logan took his first steps!!
Sadly, since then Logan has begun to regress. He has lost the ability not only to walk independently, but he also can no longer stand unsupported. After making such huge progress, I can’t even begin to imagine how difficult this is for Logan and his family who have fought with courage through all of his battles. Now comes the part where this awesome community rallies and helps this deserving family out!!
Logan’s official diagnosis is Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy…this affects the ability to coordinate muscles. This type of regression in progress is seen sometimes in kids with Cerebral Palsy…but it is not a lost cause. There is a surgery that can be done that will give Logan the hope of walking again. Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) is a surgery that is performed at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri and Logan was approved for the treatment last summer. However, there is now the daunting task of raising $100,000 to give Logan the hope of walking again. On the Logan’s Hope Go Fund Me page, the last line stands out to me “Logan has had to overcome so many health challenges over the last 10 years, and has done so with such strength, and courage. Logan is an inspiration to me and I know to many others. Please help us reach our goal of $100,000! Help us give Logan a chance at independance, help us give Logan Hope!”
How can you help?
Logan’s family and friends have already organized numerous fundraisers to support the cause…but there is still a long way to go!
This coming Saturday, March 21st from 1pm-4pm there is a fundraiser being held at Hogey’s Sports Bar (inside Alder Arena) and this is a good one!! Do you want to know who makes the best chill in Orangeville?? I DO!!! Come on out to this Chili Cook-Off fundraiser – It’s only $10 per person and all proceeds are going to support Logan’s Hope.
Who is competing, you ask? Great question!! I am excited to report that Mayor Jeremy Williams, Police Chief Wayne Kalinski, Theatre Orangeville’s David Nairn, Blues & Jazz Festival’s Larry Kurtz, Orangeville Citizen Reporter Tabitha Wells, Orangeville Banner Reporters Bill Tremblay, SNAP Dufferin’s Tammy Schneider are all throwing their chili into the pot! This should be one heck of a show down…and I can’t wait to give my humble opinion of who served up the best bowl of Chili!
Trevor Castiglione of Busted Knuckle Garage has decided to spice up the challenge a bit – Trevor is challenging any small business owner to put $50 on their choice for winner…if their pick doesn’t win, they kick it up to $100! Who’s up for that challenge?? Leave a comment here or on on my Facebook Page telling me that you want in on Trevor’s challenge and I will get you in touch with him!
Can’t make it out on Saturday? No problem. Please head over to Logan’s Hope and give generously….this is one young man who deserves this chance. I can’t wait to see you all there on Saturday afternoon!!
PLEASE SHARE – SPREAD THE WORD! C’mon Orangeville – Let’s show them how we do this!!! Every dollar you can give, makes a difference!!