Baby Bennett and the Layden Family

Melissa, one of our fabulous Athletic Therapists here at ProActive Athletic Therapy gave birth to a beautiful baby boy on January 21st. Baby Bennett had some breathing issues so he was brought to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) where he spent five and a half weeks being closely monitored. He was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition called 18q21 deletion syndrome. There are a wide variety and severity of symptoms associated with this syndrome including mental and physical delays and disabilities. The extent of which we will not know until Bennett starts to get older.

He is currently being followed by many different departments at CHEO and will continue to be followed by specialists for most of his life. Melissa and her family live in Arnprior and drive back and forth from CHEO for all of his appointments. In particular, they are keeping a close eye on his lungs and heart, and continue to monitor his reflexes and development. Bennett also has rocker bottom feet, right now they are trying casts that need to be changed weekly to help adjust his feet. Bennett and his family are waiting for surgery to correct the position of the bone in both his feet. After that, he will require special bracing and physical therapy.

As you can imagine, a lot of travel comes with a lot of expenses and less time at home to get tasks completed. Therefore, we are hoping you can help with a donation to help with gas, food, and any other added costs that come with this challenge for the Laydens. Any support for Bennett's journey is truly appreciated.

Bennett has proven himself to be a little fighter with the challenges he has already faced. He is a calm and happy baby who likes to sleep and watch his big brother Wesley play.

Thank you to all who support this very special family!!

The Team at ProActive Athletic Therapy