Becoming her own advocate: Zoey’s story

Celebrating Stroke Awareness Month!

Zoey’s story began with two silent strokes before she was even born. These strokes in utero would lead to a diagnosis of right-sided hemiplegia cerebral palsy at 18-months-old. While cerebral palsy is part of her life, it does not limit 11-year-old Zoey. Today, she plays pickleball and basketball without hesitation, fills sketchbooks with art, bakes in the kitchen and laughs with her siblings, Miles and Quinn. Zoey’s parents, Jessica and AJ, prioritize family time, whether that means a visit to the zoo, watching cooking shows, playing UNO or Snakes and Ladders, or simply sitting together in the living room for movie nights. Their dog, Oreo, is never far behind and extended relatives, including great-grandparents, are part of her strong circle of support. Zoey’s journey is not defined by what happened to her, but by everything she has done since. 

As a toddler, Zoey’s parents noticed that she was not hitting age-appropriate milestones and seemed to favour only the left side of her body. Her right hand often stayed in a fist, her toes curled under and she did not seem aware of her right side. “It was like she didn’t realize she had a right hand at the time,” they shared with their paediatrician while raising their concerns. That led them to testing at SickKids Hospital, where an MRI revealed that Zoey had experienced two strokes before birth. Like many parents receiving a new diagnosis, Jessica and AJ were left wondering what this would mean for Zoey’s future, independence and everyday life. 

The diagnosis brought both uncertainty and the supports they needed. A referral was made to Grandview Kids, a place that would become much more than a therapy provider for Zoey’s family.  

Zoey began physiotherapy, occupational therapy and participated in social work groups at Grandview Kids. Beyond the excellent clinical care, the welcoming, warm and “full of life” environment at Grandview Kids stood out immediately. Kids were not being called in for “appointments,” rather they were being invited to play. Therapies were play-based with goals set around what Zoey enjoyed, and because of this, Zoey thrived. 

With the support of her care team, she worked on strengthening her right side. She wore an ankle-foot orthotic (AFO) on her right leg and used arm splints to encourage both hands to work together. “Grandview helped me use my right hand a lot,” Zoey says. “And they helped me learn how to walk up the stairs.” As a toddler, she relied on the use of a walker but with determination, grit and encouragement, she progressed. Today, she runs onto a soccer field without supports.  

To Jessica and AJ’s surprise, the impact went far beyond physical development. Grandview Kids helped build Zoey’s confidence, resilience and her sense of belonging. Being surrounded by other children with similar experiences showed her that being “different” was something to understand and embrace. Grandview Kids also became a guide for her parents through the unknown, finding direction and reassurance in moments that once felt overwhelming. They learned how to advocate for Zoey, navigate difficult conversations and ensure she felt safe and supported in every environment. The ripple effect extended to Zoey’s older brother, Miles, now 14. Having attended many of her sessions, he absorbed the compassion modeled by Grandview Kids staff. At home, Miles became one of Zoey’s biggest supporters, encouraging and nurturing her in a protective way that shaped their bond. 

Grateful for the support they received, Zoey’s family felt a strong desire to give back in any capacity they could. In 2016 and 2017, they became Run Ajax Ambassadors for Grandview Kids. Agreeing to be part of the Ambassador Program turned into a full community effort with a team of about 30 friends and extended family, including cousins and grandparents, rallying together. They fundraised, sold custom t-shirts, raised awareness and demonstrated the power of gratitude and community. Together, they raised thousands of dollars to support the very programs that helped Zoey grow. 

Jessica and AJ are proud to share that Zoey is no longer just the child they once advocated for as she is becoming her own advocate. For a long time, talking about her diagnosis was not easy for her. Explaining what a stroke is or how cerebral palsy affects her felt intimidating. Over time, with reassurance from her family and the confidence she built through her experiences, Zoey found her voice. Now, when classmates or friends ask questions, she answers them in her own way and on her own terms. “My friend asked me a question about his mom, who also has cerebral palsy. He wanted to know how he could help her,” Zoey shares excitedly, recounting a recent opportunity for leadership and connection. Her parents remind her often that there is no right or wrong way to tell her story. “You know your body best. And when you’re ready, your voice can help others learn,” they encourage. 

The journey has not been easy; Zoey has worked hard to lead a vibrant and full childhood. Her family has faced moments of misunderstanding, stares from strangers and uncomfortable questions like, “what’s wrong with her?” Through the guidance from Grandview Kids, they have learned how to manage expectations, respond and perhaps most importantly, how to educate and advocate – not just for Zoey – but for every child and youth to help build a more inclusive world.  

Jessica and AJ encourage other parents to be their child’s voice until they find their own. “Every child deserves to be heard and respected. These conversations should start early, in classrooms and communities,” until they have trickled into the heart of every home.