NETWORK E-BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER 2006 EDITION

New Simcoe Resource Centre Launched!

Kids Demonstrate Therapies & New Services at Opening Celebration Event

Over 100 local children, parents, members of the children’s services community, government representatives and media joined in a celebration to officially open the Children’s Treatment Network’s Simcoe Resource Centre in Barrie on September 12, 2006.

For the first time, children with multiple disabilities in Simcoe County have access to a wide range of enhanced rehab and child development services, specialized equipment and professionals all at one location. Located in The Common Roof building at 165 Ferris Lane in Barrie, the Centre also brings 5 badly needed specialty services closer to home for families who’ve had to travel miles to get the treatments they need. These specialty services include Augmentative Communication, Paediatric Diagnostic Assessment services and Feeding and Swallowing clinics. Seating and Mobility and Orthotics services will be available later in the fall. The Centre also houses the first dedicated Paediatric Therapy Gym in Simcoe.

Highlights of the opening celebrations included demonstrations by 7 children and their therapists to showcase the services and therapies now available in Simcoe County. Melanie McPherson, a 16-year old Orillia high school student with Cerebral Palsy, provided everyone with inspiration and insight when she talked about turning disabilities into abilities. Melanie’s commitment to dreaming big and setting goals has placed her solidly on the road to becoming Canada’s first female disabled glider pilot! The kids also created a very special piece of artwork by placing their handprints on a large canvas that will be displayed in a place of honour in the new Resource Centre.

Children's Treatment Network CEO Bob Morton kicks off Resource Centre Opening Celebrations.

Melanie McPherson places handprint on special commemorative canvas.

Aaron Sibley, an 8-year old with Cerebral Palsy is put through his paces by Dr. Nicky Jones-Stokreef from Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital during a Paediatric Developmental Assessment as mom Laurene looks on.

Dana Lant, a 2-year old with gross motor delay tests out Simcoe’s first paediatric treadmill with physiotherapist Lucia Neilon from Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital.

Emily Currah, a 5-year old with Cerebral Palsy and occupational therapist Julie Chiba Branson from Bloorview Kids Rehab demonstrate what Augmentative Communications is all about by using a special computer system that helps Emily communicate.

Anthony Fusco, a 4-year old with developmental delays works with Stephanie Thompson from Royal Victoria Hospital on a Picture Exchange Communication System that helps him communicate while his speech develops.

A place to work, to play and to grow … In addition to being home base for a host of services, specialized equipment and supports, the Resource Centre is a focal point for the Network’s team approach to each child’s care and development. It is a meeting place for parents and the Network’s Local Teams who are made up of professionals and specialists from over 25 member agencies. These Teams are responsible for developing and delivering the single plan of care that evolves as each child’s needs change. The Centre will also become a hub for parent education and provide opportunities for families and support groups to meet and discuss common issues.

Resource Centre in York ... In addition to the wide range of new and expanded services already available in York at Network partner locations a second Resource Centre located in York will be opening in early 2007 to bring more services and supports closer to home for kids with special needs and their families in the Region.

The Network continues to grow and expand... Network partners are currently recruiting many children's services specialists in Simcoe and York. Local Teams who will serve throughout the area are coming together over the next few weeks.

Children’s Treatment Network launched toll free access to coordinated rehabilitation and child development services for kids with multiple disabilities in Simcoe and York in June 2006. By dialing 1-866-377-0286, parents of kids with special physical, developmental and communication needs connect to the first service delivery model that links healthcare, education, recreation, social and community resources from over 25 agencies and organizations. The Network develops a plan of care and coordinates services for each child through all the stages of their development, from birth to age 19.

To learn more visit www.ctn-simcoeyork.ca