A Seat at Evies Table

Hi, my name is Evie and I’m 11 years old.

When I was 7 months old, I had a very rare type of pediatric stroke called a Right Basal Ganglia Arterial Ischemic Stroke caused by Mineralizing Angiopathy. The doctors say they may only see one case like mine each year.

At the time, they weren’t sure if I would ever walk or talk. My future was uncertain.

Over the past 11 years, I have worked really hard in therapy. Hundreds of hours. I had to re learn many things, like how to sit up and stand. I couldn't feel one side of my body — I’ve done physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, FES therapy, hippotherapy, rebound therapy, glove therapies like Motus Nova and Raphael, chiropractic care, surgery, and over 100 Botox injections. I even had surgery. I still continue to work hard every day.

The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) helped me so much. The doctors there gave me a chance to keep growing, learning, and doing things people once thought I might not be able to do.

Now I want to give back.

On May 31st, my family and I are hosting a fundraising luncheon at Crystal Fountain Banquet Hall in Markham to raise money and awareness for pediatric stroke. All funds raised will go directly to the SickKids Stroke Clinic to help other kids like me.

Did you know that at least 500 children in Canada have a stroke every year? Some are newborn babies. Pediatric stroke is not talked about very often, and many families feel alone. My type of stroke is even more rare, and doctors still don’t know what caused it.

Your donation would mean so much — not just to me, but to other children and families who may be starting their own stroke journey.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for considering supporting this cause that is so close to my heart.

Evie

(11-year-old Pediatric Stroke Survivor)