Naomi's Recovery Support

On March 20th of this year, my beautiful, sweet two-year-old niece Naomi (known almost exclusively as “Omi”) suffered an anoxic brain injury after a near-drowning accident. Our family’s world has been turned upside down and we are devastated. One week in, Naomi proved she was a true fighter and shocked doctors with her progress in removing herself from serious medical intervention. Over the past two months, she has continued to defy the odds and has made some incredible gains. Although she has come so far, she still has a long way to go.

Naomi received life-saving CPR from first her father Matt and a neighbour followed by first responders in Guelph. She received outstanding care at Guelph General Hospital and then ultimately McMasters Children’s Hospital in Hamilton. She has encountered so many heroes and we are so grateful to every individual that has tended to her so far. As her recovery continues, her doctors and support team feel that she needs intensive rehab and have referred her to Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto. It’s expected she will be there for between one and three months. We just got word that there is a bed ready for her, which is the best possible news!

This new stage of recovery comes with its challenges. Rachel, Matt and the kids had recently moved to Guelph shortly before the accident but will need to temporarily relocate to Toronto near the rehab centre. They will also be travelling back and forth from Guelph regularly so that their five-year-old son Isaac can attend school. Up until now, they have had the amazing support of Ronald McDonald House at McMaster but this setup doesn’t exist at Holland Bloorview. It will cause a very real financial burden in order for the family to be there with Omi.

Over the past several weeks, people have reached out and asked how they can help. Now that Naomi is heading to Holland Bloorview, there is a very real need. We are raising funds to support them as they embark on the next phase of her recovery and allow them to focus solely on their brave two-year-old Omi as she fights the most courageous fight.

Beyond accommodations and travel for the intensive rehab portion of Omi’s recovery, any funds will go toward additional expenses associated with medical equipment and therapy sessions.

Her community has already come together in such an incredible way and we truly believe that the prayers from all around the country are working and miracles are happening. We love to hear about people praying for our girl and appreciate anyone in our community sending healing thoughts Naomi’s way as she continues to defy the odds!

We will provide updates as this journey continues so be sure to check in on this page.