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

Nolan's Story

May 27, 2021

Have you or anyone you know ever had to worry about your child's physical development? Nolan's mom did. Andrea, a Special Education Teacher, knew something was not quite right with her son when she noticed Nolan wasn't reaching age appropriate physical milestones. Worrisome isn't it?

Nolan's parents did the right thing by bringing him to their family physician. Thankfully nothing too serious, they were told that he had fine muscle tone issues. As a result, Nolan was referred to George Jeffrey Children's Centre for occupational therapy to assist with things like printing, opening his lunch containers, tying his shoes and buttoning his clothing.

While it took some time to access services, he has been receiving occupational therapy through the School Based Rehabilitative Services program. This program offers treatment for children and youth requiring occupational therapy, physiotherapy or speech therapy within the school setting, whether it be in person, or as of late, virtually.

Currently, almost 1,200 school-aged children receive support for one or more of the services - and 7 year old Nolan is one of them!

School Based Rehabilitative Services were previously provided by private contracts, but is now a service offered by George Jeffrey Children's Centre. To implement, a new space was needed to house the program supplies, therapy materials, treatment spaces and 20 new clinicians. Today, George Jeffrey Children's Centre - North Site, is pleased to be located within a leased space at the Thunder Bay Boys and Girls Club.

Much work still needs to be done to make this new space accessible and functional, and it's thanks to our generous donors that we can support this program and purchase things like Nolan's special printing books.

Today, Nolan's mom says that with the support of occupational therapy, he is making amazing progress and his printing is excellent - his parents are so proud of him!