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It’s not often that parents breathe a sigh of relief when their child is diagnosed with a chronic, potentially debilitating condition. But that sense of peace is just what Paula and Scott Hurd felt when they were told that their son, Calvin, had a rare movement disorder. “We were so happy to finally understand what was happening,” says Paula. …
Reading to teach and heal: Best books for 8-12 year olds
Books are great tools for teaching empathy to children. They can help kids understand what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes — someone with a physical or mental disability, chronic illness or learning difference. They can also help kids with medical issues see how other kids cope — which can be validating or even help spark new ideas. And books help younger generations recognize that no matter what obstacle they may face, they’re still just kids, and they’re not alone.
Today, many children’s book authors are weaving characters with medical conditions into their stories with appropriate sensitivity to both inform and create a sense of understanding among readers. Here are four must-reads for 8-12 year olds: …
Giving thanks: Stories of volunteerism, gratitude and giving back
Thanksgiving Day is a time rich in family, gratitude and appreciation. In honor of the holiday, we are celebrating the patient families who have traveled through our doors and the selfless acts of kindness and volunteerism that follow.
Donating platelets and cycling for a cause
Ten years ago, Adam Nussenbaum’s son, Max, was treated at Boston Children’s and overcame a life threatening illness. Today, Adam gives his time — and platelets — to help those in need, and he is doing so in celebration of Max; his daughter Kate, who donated her bone marrow to help her brother; and the clinicians, who made his son’s recovery possible.
For the past eight years, Adam has participated in the Pan Mass Challenge and raised over $55,000 to benefit the Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant Center at Boston Children’s. He also donates platelets on a monthly basis.
“It has been immensely gratifying to know that I have and will continue to play a small role in helping patients like Max on their road to recovery,” he says.
Elijah laughs: Augmentative communication device helps boy with cerebral palsy
A computer voice utters a simple statement. Sometimes, it’s “My name is Elijah.” Other times, “My parents are Brian and Leah,” or “I feel happy.”
For the first time in his life, Elijah can tell his mother, ‘Yes, I want a hug.’
Another phrase — “I love the Patriots” — is often repeated.
And a brown-eyed, curly-haired kindergartener’s eyes light up. He smiles and laughs out loud.
It’s a whole new world for 5-year-old Elijah Gauthier, says his mom, Leah.
Leah and her husband Brian have taken Elijah, who has severe cerebral palsy and is non-verbal, to the Augmentative Communication Program at Boston Children’s Hospital at Waltham since he was a baby. …