March is Easter Seals Month

All parents want their children to grow up happy, healthy and self-sufficient. For families who have a child or youth with a physical disability, these goals are much more difficult to reach.
When Noah Romer was a baby, his family spent every day praying that he live until tomorrow. Today, Noah is eight years old and has Cerebral Palsy (CP), visual impairment and is developmentally delayed. He’s in a wheelchair and probably will be for the rest of his life. In addition to the ongoing physical and emotional stress, each passing year brings more financial stress for the family in working to meet Noah’s needs for care. In Ontario, Easter Seals is often the first resource that families like the Romers turn to. Easter Seals provides the programs and financial assistance they need to function like any family.
Easter Seals Ontario provides funding to families of children, youth and young adults with physical disabilities for costly equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, leg braces and communication devices. As children grow, most equipment must be replaced and can cost families between $10,000 and $40,000 a year. And, the need is greater than ever.
“Last year the needs of families who came to Easter Seals for critical financial assistance exceeded the funds available. Two out of every ten children with physical disabilities had to wait for help or find other resources,” said Carol Lloyd, President and CEO, Easter Seals Ontario. “We are relying on the generosity of donors and corporate sponsors in 2008 to help bridge this financial gap to ensure these children get the funding they need.”
“Youth and the well-being of Canadians are two important pillars of our community investment program,” said Kathleen Woodard, CIBC’s Market Vice-President for GTA East. “Through our corporate donation and the volunteer work of our staff, we want to help give young people with physical disabilities the support they need and deserve. Families in communities all over the province rely on the support provided by Easter Seals, and CIBC is committed to helping to make a difference in the lives of Easter Seals kids.”
During March is Easter Seals Month, there are many ways to help kids with physical disabilities, like Noah. Schools across the province organize their own Penny Power fundraising campaigns. As well, participating retailers across Ontario are offering Paper Eggs for $2 from February 29th to March 23rd. Join the celebration as the Annual Easter Seals Telethon marks its 25th year April 6th, 2008 on CBC television. Renowned, Canadian celebrities and talent help shine the spotlight on Easter Seals kids bringing awareness to the challenges and the inspiring victories of children and youth with physical disabilities, while raising imperative funds. Now in its 61st year, the annual Easter “seal” direct mail campaign is one of Easter Seals’ largest fundraising initiatives. For more information or to donate visit www.easterseals.org.