Andrew's Journey

From Dependence to Self Advocacy 

Andrew was born with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. Since infancy, he has come to ErinoakKids for therapeutic and recreational programs, as well as the Assistive Device Program. He was just a tiny seed when he began with us, and he has grown into an independent young man who not only knows what he wants, but is not afraid to ask for it. 

His mother, Keri, recalls, “When he first started, he did regular OT/PT pretty much weekly.”

Andrew on his tricycle / Andrew in his first wheelchair

 These early interventions were crucial, helping Andrew build foundational strength and mobility after multiple surgeries. Andrew remembers the challenges, "I would come out of physio and be like, 'I'm proud of myself because I walked so far and back.' I accomplished a goal." Andrew recounts the frustration that came with these early physiotherapy sessions. 

“I kept telling myself ‘just a few more steps, just a few more steps!’” recalls Andrew. He remembers these sessions being tough, but also rewarding, as he proved to himself he could do something so big. His physiotherapists always incentivized him to go further each time. He says their support really helped him reach this milestone.  

Andrew at the Roger’s Centre for a Blue Jay’s gameErinoakKids therapists not only helped Andrew regain physical abilities but also instilled a sense of accomplishment, recognizing his potential and pushing him gently towards each new milestone. “They definitely recognized your potential,” Keri affirms.

As Andrew grew, so did his engagement with ErinoakKids programs. He used assistive devices, including voice-to-text technology, a tool that opened up new avenues for communication and independence. These voice-to-text devices helped Andrew thrive academically and became independent in completing his school work with his device. 

He also explored various drop-in programs, always seeking opportunities to engage and grow.

Andrew playing sledge hockey through Cruisers Sports! A pivotal moment in Andrew’s journey was his involvement with DramaWay, a theatre program for children and youth with disabilities that worked closely with ErinoakKids. Keri recounts, “He got connected to DramaWay because of ErinoakKids.” Andrew remembers the first time he encountered the program: “I heard people screaming and laughing... I went into the room and we sat in the back and watched them practice, and I liked it so much that the next year, I decided to enroll in the DramaWay theatre program.” This discovery allowed Andrew to flourish in his love for performing. In one of the plays, Andrew played Miss Hannigan in Dramaway’s adaptation of Annie. Andrew has been involved with DramaWay for 10 years, playing many eclectic characters. 

Andrew as Miss Hanigan in DramaWay’s adaptation of Annie 

 Andrew’s participation in the Independent Living Program (ILP) was transformative for his confidence. Initially, navigating different staff members was overwhelming, but as Keri notes, “ILP definitely taught Andrew to  become comfortable with many different people at once, which has been huge for us having support workers come into our home. So that was really big.” Andrew himself reflects on the life-changing shift at ILP, “I was not able to tell people what I needed, or I was scared to tell people what I needed . . .I've gotten better at that, especially through my experience at the ILP. I learned that it's okay to ask for help. The ILP helped me realize the kind of things I need help with.” The self-advocacy skills Andrew learned in the ILP became a cornerstone of his growing independence. 

Now, Andrew is pursuing his passion for radio broadcasting, a dream that ErinoakKids helped him explore. Through “goal day” at the ILP, Andrew had the opportunity to tour Humber College, a visit that solidified his choice to pursue broadcasting. Andrew has completed his first year of the Humber College Radio Broadcasting Program and will graduate in 2027.

Andrew at Humber College’s open house 

 Andrew and his mom Keri believe that growth is a collaborative journey. Keri emphasizes the importance of listening to her son's voice: “I tell other parents all the time that it’s important to support whatever it is your child is wanting. That’s how Andrew got to where he is today. I think it's really important that parents let kids have a voice. We need to listen to what our kids are saying because only they know what is truly best for them and their bodies.” She’s witnessed Andrew's increasing independence firsthand, learning, “If I take a step back and am not involved, he's much more successful. He's more vocal, he's more confident.”

Andrew’s journey with ErinoakKids has cultivated not just skills and abilities, but also the invaluable feeling of confidence, enabling him to live authentically and advocate for himself. As he continues to grow and pursue his dreams, Andrew is an inspiring example of what happens when seeds are planted with care; they blossom into vibrant, unique individuals.

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