Grandview Kids

Every Child And Youth Living Life At Their Full Potential

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International Pride Day Resources

Adrian Polidano

June 28 marks International Pride Day, a time to honour and celebrate members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and reflect on the ongoing work toward equality, inclusion and acceptance.

Here are some resources for talking with your child or youth about gender identity:

Books shared for open conversations:

Check out your local library or Ajax Public Library branches for physical and digital copies, with pick-up available at the Ajax Public Library – Grandview Kids Express Branch.

  • My Princess Boy by Cheryl Kilodavis
  • The Awesome Autistic Guide for Trans Teens by Enn Purkis and Sam Rose
  • My Shadow is Pink by Scott Stuart
  • My Shadow is Blue by Scott Stuart
  • My Shadow is Purple by Scott Stuart

Online resources:

Grandview Kids and Lakeridge Health open Canada’s first anesthesia procedure clinic in a Children’s Treatment Centre

Logos representing Grandview Kids, Lakeridge Health and Lakeridge Health Foundation.

Durham Region – Children and youth with developmental needs in the Durham Region will now have access to more supportive, coordinated medical care as Grandview Kids and Lakeridge Health open the Grandview Anesthesia Procedure (GAP) Clinic, thanks to $1 million in community donations through the Lakeridge Health Foundation. The GAP Clinic is the first-of-its-kind in Canada, made possible through a pioneering partnership between a Children’s Treatment Centre (CTC) and a hospital.

Located within the Medical Services area at Grandview Kids’ Ajax-based headquarters, The Jerry Coughlan Building, the GAP Clinic provides anesthesia-assisted care in a familiar, friendly environment close to home for Grandview Kids clients. Grandview Kids is Durham Region’s only CTC, supporting children and youth with physical, communication and developmental needs to live, learn and play. Lakeridge Health provides access to one of Ontario’s most comprehensive health systems, with five hospitals, the Jerry Coughlan Health & Wellness Centre and more than 30 locations delivering acute, ambulatory and long-term care.

For Grandview Kids parent Abby Valenciano, the GAP Clinic has been highly anticipated.

“My 10-year-old son lives with cerebral palsy and has needed up to 16 Botox injections in his legs without sedation every four to six months since he was four years old,” said Grandview Kids parent, Abby Valenciano. “These treatments are essential for managing his pain and supporting his independence. Each visit is difficult, heightening his anxiety and fear. As a parent, it is heartbreaking to watch him cry and struggle through every procedure. The only alternative has been hospital sedation, but for a medically complex child with a long history of hospitalizations, that environment only deepened his ‘white coat’ anxiety. The launch of the GAP Clinic is truly life-changing for families like ours. It offers a safer, more compassionate option that prioritizes children’s comfort.”

Members of Grandview Kids and Lakeridge Health’s Senior Leadership and Medical Services Teams and Team Grandview members supporting the GAP Clinic, posing in The Jerry Coughlan Building’s Atrium.
Members of Grandview Kids and Lakeridge Health’s Senior Leadership and Medical Services Teams and Team Grandview members supporting the GAP Clinic, posing in The Jerry Coughlan Building’s Atrium.

Starting on May 6, the GAP Clinic supports children and youth receiving botulinum toxin (Botox) injections to treat spasticity or dystonia caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy. Many clients require multiple injections during a single visit. Clients often experience pain, anxiety and distress when receiving this necessary care. Anesthesia reduces discomfort and improves the overall experience during medical procedures.

“The GAP Clinic represents an important step forward in how Grandview Kids supports children and youth with developmental needs,” said Tom McHugh, CEO of Grandview Kids. “Our Ajax-based headquarters was purpose-built to offer an advanced procedure room to support anesthesia-assisted care for the children and youth we serve. We are proud to watch this space reach its full potential less than 18 months after The Jerry Coughlan Building opened its doors. Thanks to our innovative partnership with Lakeridge Health and the support of Lakeridge Health Foundation’s donors, we can offer anesthesia-assisted procedures in a setting designed specifically for our clients. Together, we are creating a more accessible, comfortable and intentional care experience for families.”

Members of Grandview Kids and Lakeridge Health’s Medical Services Teams and Team Grandview members supporting the GAP Clinic, posing in the Medical Services area at The Jerry Coughlan Building.
Members of Grandview Kids and Lakeridge Health’s Medical Services Teams and Team Grandview members supporting the GAP Clinic, posing in the Medical Services area at The Jerry Coughlan Building.

“We’re proud to support the launch of the GAP Clinic alongside Grandview Kids,” said Cynthia Davis, President and CEO, Lakeridge Health. “It’s an important step forward in making specialized care more accessible for children across Durham Region. By bringing anesthesia-supported procedures into a child-friendly setting, this clinic will help ease what can be a very difficult experience for families. We’re grateful to Grandview Kids, the Lakeridge Health Foundation and the many donors whose commitment has helped make this possible.”

Before the GAP Clinic was introduced, Grandview Kids clients requiring anesthesia for Botox injections were referred to Lakeridge Health Oshawa and treated in an operating room. The GAP Clinic enables care to be delivered in one place, from consultation to delivery. This centralization eliminates the need for hospital visits and minimizes stress, anxiety and travel for families.

“The GAP Clinic fills a critical gap in access to medical care for children and youth with complex physical needs,” said Dr. Carolyn Hunt, Medical Director and Executive Lead, Medical Services at Grandview Kids. “Our families have told us how difficult it is to access hospital-based care that meets the needs of their children. Grandview Kids’ expert Developmental Paediatricians and Lakeridge Health’s anesthesiology and surgical teams responded by bringing anesthesia-assisted procedures into a space designed for them. The GAP Clinic demonstrates what integrated, inclusive medical care looks like. I am excited for the future of the clinic as it helps more families receive the care they may not otherwise get without anesthesia.”

The GAP Clinic’s procedure room, showcasing its equipment, including a bed, anesthesia gas machine, rolling carts and other technological equipment, like computers on rolling stands.
The GAP Clinic’s procedure room.

Getting the GAP Clinic into operation was a collective effort made possible by the generous support of members of the Durham Region community. Much-needed equipment, such as the anesthesia gas machine in the space, was purchased with donor-raised funds from Lakeridge Health Foundation’s successful $1 million campaign.

“Lakeridge Health Foundation is committed to advancing health care throughout Durham Region, and we are thrilled to be part of this innovative partnership,” says Yves Gadler, CEO, Lakeridge Health Foundation. “By funding the equipment needs of the GAP Clinic, our donors are helping elevate an existing partnership and ensuring specialized care is available, close to home, for thousands of children and youth. Opportunities like this one are an example of how, together, we can transform the health care experience and provide the best possible care for families in our community and beyond.”

The opening of the GAP Clinic builds on the partnership between Grandview Kids and Lakeridge Health, first announced in 2025. The partnership represents a shared commitment to improving access to specialized, community-based care for children and youth with complex developmental needs and their families.

The GAP Clinic will operate once per month. Clients must attend an assessment with a Lakeridge Health anesthesiologist to determine whether care in the GAP Clinic is right for their needs.

About Grandview Kids

Founded in 1953, Grandview Kids is a family-centred, independently operated non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children and youth with physical, communication and developmental needs to live, learn and play. Through specialized programs, rehabilitation services, outpatient clinical therapies and medical services delivered by a dedicated team of developmental paediatricians, Grandview Kids supports children and youth to live at their full potential. Learn more at grandviewkids.ca.

About Lakeridge Health

Lakeridge Health provides access to one of Ontario’s most comprehensive health systems, with five hospitals, the Jerry Coughlan Health & Wellness Centre, and more than 30 locations delivering acute, ambulatory, and long-term care. It offers leading regional programs and specialized services, and is home to the Queen’s–Lakeridge Health MD Family Medicine Program. Supported by nearly 9,000 staff and partners, Lakeridge Health advances research, education, and integrated care across Durham Region.

About Lakeridge Health Foundation

Lakeridge Health Foundation raises funds and awareness for both the Oshawa and Whitby sites of Lakeridge Health. The Foundation supports Lakeridge Health through generous donations from individuals and organizations, signature events, community partnerships and initiatives. In 2017, Lakeridge Health Foundation received distinguished accreditation for the Imagine Canada Standards Program, making the Foundation the first charity in Durham Region to uphold such a standard. For more information, visit www.lhfoundation.ca.

For more information, please contact:

Adrian Polidano, Communications and Marketing Manager

Grandview Kids | T: 437-703-3559 | E: adrian.polidano@grandviewkids.ca

Daina Robinson, Vice-President, Marketing & Community Engagement

Lakeridge Health Foundation | T: 905-391-0181 | E: darobinson@lh.ca

Sharon Navarro, Manager, Public Relations, Strategic Communications

Lakeridge Health | T: 905-435-7889 | E: snavarro@lh.ca

Siblings by Siblings Program

National Siblings Day is celebrated each year on April 10. To honour this, we are proud to feature Grandview Kids’ “Siblings by Siblings” program!

Siblings by Siblings is a peer-led support program created specifically for siblings of children with disabilities or medical complexities. The program provides a safe, welcoming space where siblings can connect with others who understand their lived experiences. Through interactive discussions, games and creative activities, participants build friendships, strengthen coping strategies and recognize one another for their unique roles within their families.

Where did the idea for the program come from?

Siblings often carry a complex mix of emotions, such as pride, protectiveness, responsibility, frustration and love. While they play an important role within their families, they may not always have a dedicated space to process their own experiences. Siblings by Siblings was developed to ensure siblings of Grandview Kids clients feel seen, heard and valued as individuals. The program emphasizes building resilience, confidence and peer connection.

What happens in the Siblings by Siblings program?

The Siblings by Siblings Team, which includes Peer Navigators Ella, Fizza, and Isabella, hosts evening events throughout the year at our Ajax headquarters, The Jerry Coughlan Building. At each event, the team organizes a variety of activities, which have included thoughtful discussions on burnout, decorating cupcakes (for themselves and their siblings), self-care trivia, card games and creating self-care booklets and loot bags.

The program is open to siblings ages 10 to 18 and is positively impacting those who participate. When asked about their favourite Siblings by Siblings activities, participants shared, “My favourite activity is playing with my peers and connecting with them,” and “Making cupcakes — it was so much fun and calming. I just had fun!” When asked about the most inclusive activities, attendees noted, “Talking about my experiences with my siblings,” and “Playing Uno — I felt so included.”

The responses from Siblings by Siblings participants reflect the importance of peer connection, shared storytelling and meaningful yet fun engagement.

Attendance and growth

The promotion of the program’s launch reached 2,809 views (as of August 15, 2025). This attention demonstrated the strong community interest in sibling-focused programming. Since the pilot event, we have seen consistent growth, with attendance ranging from 8 to 16 siblings per session. Notably, 8 participants have been recurring attendees since the very first pilot event, highlighting sustained engagement and the value siblings are finding in the program.

Siblings by Siblings continues to grow as a meaningful and anticipated offering within Family Engagement programming. National Siblings Day provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate siblings and spotlight the importance of investing in spaces designed for them and by them.

Testimonials

“My name is Aaleyah, and I’m in Grade 8. Being part of the Siblings by Siblings program at Grandview Kids has meant a lot to me. Having a sibling with a disability can feel overwhelming because there are a lot of extra responsibilities and moments when things are harder or different from other families. I adapted to how my brother made my life different, and sometimes that was kind of hard for me. Being part of this program helped me realize I’m not alone, and I’ve learned to be more patient, understanding, and proud of my brother and everything he accomplishes.

My favourite part of the Siblings by Siblings program is that it’s run by people with siblings with a disability, just like me, so they actually understand and relate to what it’s like. It makes it easier to open up because they’ve had similar experiences. I also love the events where we can connect, share stories, and just have fun together. This program has given me a safe space to talk about my feelings without judgment, and I would definitely recommend it to other kids who have a sibling at Grandview Kids because it helps you feel heard, supported, and understood.”

– Aaleyah, Grandview Kids sibling

“I really liked going to the Siblings by Siblings group. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it ended up being really fun and comfortable. It was nice meeting other kids who understand what it’s like, and it made me feel less alone.

I liked that we could talk about our feelings without it being awkward or forced. Everyone was really easy to talk to, and the environment was calm and relaxed. It actually helped me open up more than I thought I would. Overall, I had a really good experience, and I’m glad I went. I’d definitely recommend it to other siblings.”

– Kaleb Fancy, Grandview Kids sibling

“I had a really good time at the Siblings by Siblings group. It was lots of fun, and I liked being there with other kids. My favourite part was the snacks and drawing. It was really relaxing and easy to just hang out and enjoy. I can’t wait for the next one!”

– Kareem Fancy, Grandview Kids sibling

To register for an upcoming “Siblings by Siblings” event, follow Grandview Kids on Instagram and Facebook or speak to a member of the Family Engagement Team!

Grandview Kids has achieved a perfect score in its recent Accreditation Canada survey, earning Accreditation with Exemplary Standing, the highest possible designation. To put this into context, Grandview Kids was evaluated on hundreds of criteria, including 77 Required Organizational Practices (ROPs), meeting every single one. 

Watch as Grandview Kids’ Chief Executive Officer, Tom McHugh, shares his reflections on this outstanding achievement.

“I want to congratulate and thank every member of Team Grandview for contributing to our successful Accreditation survey. I am privileged to work alongside such a highly motivated and talented group of changemakers and innovators in our community,” says Grandview Kids CEO, Tom McHugh. “From thorough on-site reviews, to interviews, observations, documentation and a detailed assessment against hundreds of criteria, Team Grandview truly went above and beyond to demonstrate how deeply committed Grandview Kids is to excellence in paediatric rehabilitation.” 

Accreditation Canada is an independent, non-profit organization that sets standards of excellence for quality and safety in health care organizations across Canada.  Grandview Kids participates in accreditation on a four-year cycle and is assessed against standards that examine Governance, Leadership, Infection Prevention and Control, Medication Management, and care provision practices for those with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. By participating in Accreditation, Grandview Kids is enabled to critically evaluate its services and care, ensuring they are delivered to the highest standards. 

In November 2025, Accreditation Canada surveyors spoke with Grandview Kids’ Board of Directors, clinicians and staff, parents and caregivers and community partners. In line with rigorous national standards, our surveyors closely examined the quality, safety and overall client experience across our sites.  

Throughout their time at our sites across Durham Region, the surveyors applauded Grandview Kids’ emphasis on client safety and continuous quality improvement through its evidence-based approach to clinical care, innovative community and academic partnerships, leadership development and its robust and impactful Family Engagement program. 

“At Grandview Kids, client safety and quality care remain top priorities for both leadership and staff. Care delivery is grounded in evidence-based practices and is consistently safe, family-centred and responsive to client needs.”  – Accreditation Canada Report

Grandview Kids is proud, once again, to have received Accreditation with Exemplary Standing and recognition for its excellence in providing high-quality care to children and youth with physical, communication and developmental needs, and their families. 

Meet Grandview Kids Volunteer, Heather A.!

How long have you been volunteering at Grandview Kids? 

I have been at Grandview for about 1.5 years.  I have assisted as a Meet & Greet volunteer and now I help at the Volunteer-run Café at the Ajax headquarters.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about volunteering at Grandview Kids? 

I would say go for it! It is a great organization for children and youth.

Has anything interesting happened to you while you were volunteering at Grandview Kids? 

 I like talking to the customers and helping them find what they are looking for at the Café.  

What is the best part of volunteering at Grandview Kids for you? 

Meeting new people.

Who inspires you to volunteer or give back? 

My roommate, Betty E., at Community Living and my boss, Tim, at WeCandle. 

Visit our volunteer page to learn more and apply to become a Grandview Kids volunteer!

Meet Grandview Kids Volunteer, Katrina B.!

How long have you been volunteering at Grandview Kids? 

I have been volunteering at Grandview since September 2025, so I’m fairly new! 

What would you say to someone who was thinking about volunteering at Grandview Kids? 

For anyone who would like to volunteer at Grandview Kids, I would say that’s an amazing choice, as this is an incredible company that supports children with physical, communication and developmental needs. Volunteering at Grandview Kids means you’ll be part of a team that makes a difference in families’ lives! 

Has anything interesting happened to you while you were volunteering at Grandview Kids? 

As I have only volunteered at Grandview Kids for one month so far, I have not seen anything in particular. Although I have heard stories about the children reaching milestones by taking independent steps, saying their first words, or trying new skills they have been working on.  

What is the best part of volunteering at Grandview Kids for you? 

The best part about volunteering at Grandview Kids is making a difference in children’s lives. No matter if it’s helping in programs, supporting an event, or being a friendly face, you are part of a team that helps kids achieve goals that may seem impossible. It could be the small moments of making children smile or building confidence; it can be rewarding. 

Who inspires you to volunteer or give back? 

As a Grandview Kid myself, my family’s influence inspired me to volunteer at Grandview Kids. I want to inspire and be that influence for children as they experience the Grandview life now, to show them that it does get better and that they will reach their potential. My mother has taken me to Grandview Kids for speech therapy and audiology to help me improve, and I have improved over time thanks to Grandview Kids! 

Visit our volunteer page to learn more and apply to become a Grandview Kids volunteer!

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