Tyler's Story

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Images Captured By Caroline Ross Photography

Two and a half year old Tyler is a joyful little boy with a constant smile. His family calls him the "cuddle monster" because he's such a friendly little guy. This Tiny Light loves storytime. He also enjoys the outdoors, music and has a fondness for cheese.

When Tyler was born in 2009, he suffered from a lack of oxygen and was kept in the ICU for 14 long days. His parents thought the worst was over. But one day, after Tyler's dad left for a month long trip, his mom received devastating news. Their precious one year old son was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder.

Understandably, it took some time for Tyler's family to come to terms with his diagnosis and challenges. He can't roll over, sit or stand unsupported, or feed himself. Also, Tyler is on three different types of anti-epileptic medications. Despite all that, Tyler makes strides every day, and always with a smile.

Tyler's mother admits she often worries about her son's future but she says her Tiny Light has shown her how precious life really is. "He is the love of our life and that smile takes the rough edges out of our daily struggles. Tyler is the angel in my life, our lives, and every life he touches."

Written by Catherine Urquhart

Hunter's Story

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Images Captured by Plus One Photography
http://www.plusonephotography.com/


Tiny Light Hunter is a happy eight year old boy who constantly inspires his loved ones, especially his mother Rachel and sister Jade. Hunter's smile and laughter are contagious, as is his enthusiasm for life.
Hunter's challenges started as a newborn, when he was having as many as 20 seizures a day. At just eight weeks, he was diagnosed with a seizure disorder and placed in an induced coma to help control the seizures. Five weeks later he was released, with doctors delivering the heart-breaking news that he would never meet "normal" milestones.
For Hunter's mother Rachel, the prognosis left her in disbelief, and wondering, "Why me?" But over time, she has learned to take one day at a time and focus on Hunter's happiness. Despite having epilepsy and global developmental delay, Hunter can now crawl, sit on his own and walk with assistance. He loves swimming, going on a swing and watching fireworks.
Hunter is still non-verbal, unable to feed himself and requires a wheelchair. Fortunately, friends and family have rallied together in support of this Tiny Light. And with their ongoing help, Hunter's mom believes her son will remain happy and healthy, and continue to inspire everyone he meets.

written by Catherine Urquhart

Aiden's story

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Images Captured By Amber Light photo and design
http://www.amberlightphoto.com/


Four year old Aidan is a happy little boy who finds joy in even the simplest things in life. This Tiny Light is known for his genuine laughter, which is rather contagious. He loves dancing to music, playing with his iPad, and going on nature walks. Aidan also has an incredible sense of direction and an amazing memory for places he's been before.

After Aidan was born, he developed more slowly than other kids his age, but still managed to reach all expected milestones. Then, at age two, his parents Christine and Spencer noticed his speech was regressing. It eventually disappeared altogether and Aidan lost interest in his surroundings and other people. Following several examinations, Aidan was diagnosed with autism.

Over the past two years Aidan has started making verbalizations and can now use pictures to communicate. Still, he has motor issues and sensory deficits, which have resulted in him eating just 10 items. With continued therapy, his parents are hopeful that Aidan will continue to make progress.

In September, this Tiny Light will begin classes at a special needs kindergarten - an important milestone for Aidan and his loved ones, who have grown closer during the challenges of the past four years. As Aidan's mother Christine notes, her son has taught them what's important in life and to live in the moment.
written by Catherine Urquhart