Darius' Story / George Jeffrey Children's Foundation / Thunder Bay, Ontario

Darius' Story

September 5, 2019

Darius spent a few months in critical care and underwent many surgeries which delayed his development. He was only a few months old when he was referred to George Jeffrey Children's Centre.

Darius has a unique case. He was diagnosed with Down Syndrome, which has challenges including low muscle tone and other developmental issues. However, Darius also has Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) which constantly causes Darius to live in pain and is a life threatening hereditary condition.

Darius has tumors in his eyes, which have made him legally blind; tumours in his brain threaten to take away his hearing in addition to making it hard for him to gain his balance; and, the tumors in his spine are wrapped around his main artery that brings blood to his brain. These are aggressive tumors which can grow fast and take Darius away from us at any time.

The staff and clinicians at George Jeffrey have been hard at work helping Darius with physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech through visits at the Centre, home, or day care. The team has been assisting with Darius' transition to school for the fall of 2019 providing equipment like a walker and wheelchair.

Most importantly, the team has given us strength and courage to continue to fight for Darius and provide the best possible life we can.

George Jeffrey celebrates each milestone, not only because they were a part of it, but because they know that Darius has to work a little harder and fight a little more to get there. If we didn't have George Jeffrey Children's Centre, I would be trying to put the pieces of the puzzle together on my own and hoping I could find that right fit for us.

The Centre is needed in our community. Once you become involved there you feel as though you've gained a second family who are a constant support for you. They will continue to stand by you through your journey and provide you with the tools you need to continue fighting. The clinicians are professionals who understand and can help your child get to where they need to be. They have helped us to live each day to the fullest and celebrate everything along the way.