Jaxon loves anime, video games, and playing on a sled hockey team. He wants to be President one day so he can advocate for free internet. His mom, Kim, told him to go for it, knowing he can do anything he sets his mind to.
Jaxon has quadriplegic spastic cerebral palsy, a condition that affects all four of his extremities. Kim believes in Easterseals, and the therapies Jaxon participates in that elevate his independence and mobility.
The therapies Jaxon participates in involve a range of activities, such as walking, stretching, and shoulder isolation tasks. Kim explains that spastic cerebral palsy causes Jaxon's muscles to fire unexpectedly, but therapy aids in stretching and relaxing his body, allowing for improved movement and function.
“His end goal in life is to be as independent as possible,” Kim says. “So, these therapies help him to achieve that goal to learn what to do and how to maneuver his body so that he doesn’t have to depend on someone else to do it for him.”
Throughout the session, the therapists guide Jaxon through stretches he can eventually perform on his own, empowering him to take charge of his physical health.
Kim reflects on Jaxon's early days, born prematurely at thirty-three weeks, spending time in the NICU, and eventually starting early intervention programs. The support from Easterseals became instrumental in their journey, providing therapeutic interventions and emotional and educational support for the entire family.
Kim acknowledges his therapists' dedication and patience, describing how they offered guidance on equipment, therapies, and even provided emotional support during difficult times. “My biggest fear was what does this do for his life? You know, what can he do socially? What can he do on his own? What can he do in school? How is this going to affect him and his self-esteem? And just what kind of impact does this have on his life longevity and ... what he wants out of life?”
Easterseals provided Kim answers, support, and a sense of community, helping her understand the intricacies associated with cerebral palsy. Jaxon’s therapists became a reliable source of information and assistance, turning their clinic into a place where their family felt heard and understood.
Easterseals also plays a crucial role in helping Jaxon navigate the symptoms of his disability. “They helped me ... throughout my life, like trying to do different things that I couldn’t quite do. But now I can because I’m strong enough,” Jaxon says. He adds that strengthening with Easterseals has allowed him to ride his bike and walk long distances.
Surgeries and therapies have been part of Jaxon’s journey and his recovery and growth, showcasing his resilience and determination. Kim says, “When he was in the hospital after surgery, he was cracking jokes with the nurses and ... making people laugh and that’s just him. He’s always thinking on the bright side of things.” Kim’s proud of Jaxon’s involvement in and love for sled hockey, adaptive biking, and other activities he enjoys. Easterseals, with its holistic approach, addresses not only Jaxon's physical needs, but supports his emotional well-being so he can thrive.
Kim recently underscored the significance of Easterseals' comprehensive care, support, and encouragement for children like Jaxon and their families, fostering a community where everyone can succeed. “Easterseals is family ... it doesn’t matter why you’re going there, what you need help with ... they’re gonna exhaust all outlets, all avenues until they come up with something to help you before you leave that building. “
Join Easterseals All Access today to help provide support all year long for children like Jaxon.
Below: Watch Jaxon as he shares how Easterseals is making a profound difference in his life.
