Interviews

In December, Grandview Kids Occupational Therapist, Sandie, organized a draw for two coats from Koolway Sports. The lucky winners of this draw would win a custom-made coat from Koolway Sports.

Koolway Sports, a Canadian-owned-and-operated company that designs and manufactures clothing in the GTA, prides itself on manufacturing clothing that is comfortable and warm for people of all ages who have mobility issues. Koolway Sports’ specialty is providing fashionable and weather-appropriate outerwear that saves time and effort for customers and caregivers who need a stress-free experience in dressing. The company customizes each product to fit individual client needs from their body frame to their custom wheelchairs.

Both Sandie and another Grandview Kids Occupational Therapist, Serena, are among those who entered several of their clients in the draw. Sandie’s client, Erum, and Serena’s client, Colton, were the two lucky winners!

Serena was overjoyed to find out that Colton had won. She says, “He really needed a warmer winter option.” Colton and his family have excitedly welcomed the new addition to his wardrobe. Being able to have a warm coat that is tailor-made to fit him and his wheelchair has been treasured during this winter’s chilly weather

Sandie’s client, Erum, notes that she likes that her new coat is red. She is particularly happy about the fact that she does not have to wear bulky snow pants anymore. Erum’s mom, Satwat, noted that due to Erum’s neuromuscular disorder, her legs are very cold all the time and this jacket will help her stay warm. Satwat also likes how it will be easier for herself, the personal support workers and teachers to put on the jacket without causing pain for Erum. Koolway Sports also provided Erum with socks, which help keep her feet warm with ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) on; this enables her to no longer need to wear snow boots.

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These coats have been game-changers for both Colton and Erum. We are so delighted to see them cozied-up in their brand new Koolway Sports coats, just in time for some outdoor winter fun!

Volunteer Spotlight: Vicki Caume

Volunteer since October 2017

Favourite Activities: Golf, Pickleball, Reading, Jigsaw Puzzles, Leisurely Walks

In light of National Volunteer Week last week, we wanted to put a spotlight on one of our volunteers, Vicki Caume. Vicki has been volunteering with Grandview and Campbell Children’s School since October 2017 after retiring as a special education teacher. Grandview has been a part of Vicki’s life for quite some time.

“My first son was born with a number of developmental challenges and we were often involved with agencies like Grandview for his care [and] for a number of years I would bring my students to Grandview to use the therapeutic pool,” she explained.

For Vicki, to go from working in an educative setting to volunteering at our centres, just seemed natural. “When I retired from teaching, I immediately realized that I missed being around children and quickly thought of Grandview,” she said. When asked if there have been any key moments or connections that have struck a chord with her, she stated, “Of course the kids. You can see the pride they have in their accomplishments. Some of the children have so many obstacles to overcome and their enthusiasm and positivity in constantly inspiring.”

Creating positive experiences for the children and setting them up for success in their lives is what sparks joy in her volunteering experiences. At the end of the day, it is the children that she gets to work with that keep her around. “It’s the kids that make volunteering so enjoyable. Their enthusiasm, their eagerness to try new things, their perseverance. Whether I am volunteering at the Campbell School or with one of the recreational programs, the kids are always so much fun.”

When asked how she would describe Grandview to someone who does not know about our services she shared, “Grandview is a rehabilitation centre which serves the needs of children with physical, intellectual and developmental challenges and their families. The centre offers diagnostic services and follow up care and therapies (physical therapy, speech and language, occupational therapy). They also work with children on the autism spectrum. They support both the child and their families. As well as therapy, Grandview offers a wide array of therapeutic recreation programs to help children interact with other children and people in the community. Grandview is an amazing centre that helps children reach their full potential in a positive and caring manner.”

It is clear that Vicki is passionate for this type of work and excels in this environment. We would like to express our gratitude for all the good that she does: thank you, Vicki!