Cyle’s Graduation Story

Cyle, born at just 26 weeks, came into the world fragile, impossibly small and a fighter. It wasn’t until he was three years old, while living in Jamaica, that he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP), level 4. Even then, answers were hard to come by. Resources were few, and therapies were out of reach. For most of his childhood, understanding his condition was like trying to read in the dark. 

For years, his mother, Nordean, a resilient and determined woman, did what she could with the limited resources she had. Financial hardship meant makeshift solutions, such as pillows to help him sit up, custom-built wooden chairs, and of course, endless love. Without access to specialized mobility devices or consistent medical care, every day was a challenge. As Cyle aged, his mental and emotional health began to waver. As he watched other children run and play, and though his spirit was vibrant and full of life, he began to withdraw. His mother, one of ten siblings herself, never treated him differently, ensuring he was participating socially as best as he could.  

Everything changed when Cyle and his mom moved to Canada when he was 12. At first, they weren’t sure where to turn. They called many different organizations trying to connect with the right place that would provide them guidance. One of those calls connected them to Grandview Kids, and from that moment, hope began to blossom. 

Occupational therapist, Sandie, and physiotherapist, Nicole, were some of the first from Team Grandview to visit the family. They walked into a home marked by strength as they saw homemade equipment built by loving hands. “You’re super people,” they said, recognizing the love and fight that had brought them this far. Social Work helped secure Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD) funding and quickly provided a loaner wheelchair while the paperwork for permanent equipment was processed. Soon, Cyle received ankle-foot orthotics (AFOs), a stander, commode and other tools that eased daily functions.  

Physiotherapy, Botox® treatments and customized home exercise plans from Grandview Kids helped reduce his pain, especially in his growing body. His physiotherapists even printed out exercises with photos and instructions, making it easier for the family to follow at home. The relief of pain allowed him to stretch, grow and, perhaps most significantly, focus. For the first time, he could attend school regularly and began to thrive. 

In Jamaica, school had been a battle. Many didn’t believe he belonged in a classroom. However, in Canada, with Grandview Kids’ support, not only was he welcomed, but he excelled. Despite the learning gaps from years without proper support, Cyle caught up, and by middle school, he had earned a student award. By high school, it was straight A’s. His mother watched as her son blossomed, finding strength in the very place where others had once only seen limitation. 

Grandview Kids continued to support Cyle, Nordean and his stepdad beyond his physical needs. Cyle was missing his extended family in Jamaica, the warmth of his homeland and the familiarity of his culture. Canada’s cold winters and unfamiliar systems made the early days tough. His team at Grandview Kids, consisting of therapists across several disciplines, developmental paediatrician, a social worker and a family support assistant, helped bridge that emotional gap. They listened to Cyle, connected him with other kids, showed him he wasn’t alone and made space for his voice and his story. He saw that he belonged. 

When Cyle had major surgery in September 2024 for hip relocation and foot lengthening, he spent eight weeks at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in inpatient rehab. Following his surgery, Cyle received follow-up care from his Grandview Kids team. While recovering, he stayed on top of his schoolwork, and by the end of the year, he made the honour roll again! Graduating high school this year was more than a standard ceremony. It was a celebration of resilience. His mom wept tears of joy and pride, remembering the 12 to 18-hour days: waking at 6:30 a.m., finishing homework by 10 p.m. “I look up to my son,” she says. “I see many days where Cyle can push through because of his mental fortitude. I am very proud.” 

“Cyle has been with Grandview since 2019, and has Level IV spastic CP. As a result, he is unable to stand or walk and has limited use of his hands. He has sustained significant pain and difficulties over the years. None of this has stopped his drive and ambition. His resilience and determination were rewarded last night as he walked across his high school stage to graduate with honours and the Ontario Scholar Award!” – Tanya, Family Support Assistant 

Cyle, now 18, loves basketball, music and lively conversations about politics and societal topics. With the loving support of his mom, stepdad and extended family, he knows his differences make him uniquely important in the world. Nordean reminds him that, “Your difference is appreciated. Look at colours, they can’t all be the same – they come in different shades, and it makes the world more beautiful.” Along with the unwavering support of Grandview Kids, Cyle’s story is one of hope not only to children and youth with physical, communication and developmental needs in Canada, but including those back in Jamaica and beyond. He’s living proof that with the right support, every child and youth can live at their full potential.