One Child's Dream

Your generosity positively changes young lives.

I want to share with you the inspiring story of Jude, a remarkable nine-year-old boy. His development and inclusion demonstrate the incredible impact of your support.

Jude’s parents, Mary and Samuel, had high hopes for their unborn son’s future. Their joy and anticipation were shattered during Mary’s pregnancy when they learned Jude had a rare congenital condition. It was an incredibly challenging situation no parents could be prepared for. The condition affected his right leg, resulting in a deformity and the absence of bones in the lower half.

Despite the difficulties, Mary and Samuel remained hopeful, seeking out specialists to find the best solution for their cherished son. When Jude was just two years old, he underwent radical surgery, a lower-limb amputation, to enhance his future mobility. Can you imagine how heart-wrenching this decision was for his parents? They knew the path in front of them would not be easy, however they were determined to provide Jude with the best possible care and opportunities.

Jude on basketball court
Jude and family

While still a toddler, Jude began his remarkable journey at the Rehabilitation Centre for Children. A journey which has been made easier and much brighter thanks to your generous support.

Thoughtful donor investment has contributed to the Centre being a place of excellence and to the team here being able to provide leading-edge care for Jude. In the past six years, Prosthetics and Orthotics has designed and adjusted multiple prostheses for him. They have worked tirelessly to ensure every aspect of these devices is perfect. They have transformed Jude’s mobility, and he now walks so well, you wouldn’t know he has a prosthetic leg. It’s truly amazing to see. His parents are so grateful and appreciate your continued investment is key to Jude’s quality of life.

“With a prosthetic he can do everything he pretty much wants. He seems to be limitless.”

Jude is a real charmer, his smile and dazzling eyes lighting up any room he enters. He excels in school and loves basketball and soccer. An aspiring model, he exudes youthful confidence. He dreams of being a doctor, a police officer, a soccer player and so much more. Your support will help him continue to flourish and achieve these dreams.

Donor commitment to inclusivity and Jude’s full participation with his family, school and community has changed his life in more ways than you can imagine. The donor-funded bike clinic at the Rehabilitation Centre has enabled custom adaptations to his bike, allowing him to be adventurous and engaged.

“To know we have the Centre, which caters to Jude and is such a strong support, is a huge blessing.”

Jude has overcome significant challenges in his short nine years and his journey is far from over. He will face more obstacles as he grows and will need your dedication and generosity to keep thriving. His family is eternally grateful for your kindness.

Jude riding bicycle
I echo Mary and Samuel’s sentiments of gratitude. When meeting Jude for the first time, I was overwhelmed by his strength and vibrancy. I was struck by how far he’d come and how past support has made his life better.

You have an opportunity now to be in Jude’s corner. Your investment will help ensure the Rehabilitation Centre for Children continues to be an exemplary service provider, striving to find life-changing solutions for this special youth.

I hope Jude’s passion for being all that he can be brings a smile to your face and inspires you to give today.

My deepest appreciation for your thoughtfulness and belief in Jude catching the stars he’s reaching so hard for. Your generosity at this special time of the year will make his eyes sparkle and his smile even brighter.

With heartfelt gratitude,

JKH
Jane Kidd-Hantscher, Executive Director
Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation

Jude