Jayme's Story

Images Captured By Jodie Hadden Photography

22 month old Jayme is a happy little girl who loves swimming, hugging,
people watching and laughing. And this Tiny Light is known for her
infectious giggle!

Jayme arrived in August 2011 after a healthy, full-term pregnancy but
soon after was diagnosed with Down syndrome. It was a shock to her
parents, who were also faced with the news that Jayme had a heart
defect. At just two months old she underwent open heart surgery.

Understandably, for parents Christie and Scott there have been some
tough days. They've worried about Jayme's quality of life and her
future. But the past few years have also shown them they are supported
by an amazing family and friends.

Despite any challenges, Jayme has given her family unconditional love.
And in turn they have come to realize that she can live a long,
healthy and happy life. One that will be even happier this summer,
when Jayme will become a big sister.

Written by Catherine Urquhart

Joseph's Story

Images Captured by Jodie Hadden Photography

Tiny Light Joseph is a loving, beautiful six-year old who is just finishing kindergarten. He is very close to his younger brother Sebastien and they love to play the iPad game Angry Birds together. Joseph also likes to wrestle with his dad and brother and bake cookies with his mommy.

Joseph has faced a lot of health challenges in his young life. He has been diagnosed with Down syndrome as well as atlantoaxial instability -- which is a problem with the alignment of his spinal cord. He also suffers from celiac disease -- an immune reaction to gluten -- and sleep apnea. Joseph has had five surgeries to put tubes in his ears to drain fluid and may need hearing aids.

But Joseph is doing his best to overcome his obstacles. Because of his hearing loss, he and his family have had to use sign language and this Tiny Light understands over 200 words. He also has an uncanny ability to read and recognize some words; he can pick out his favourite song on the iPod every time. While Joseph has a number of procedures ahead of him, his parents are optimistic about his future. "He perseveres and never gives up, be it on a level of Angry Birds or mastering the writing of his name," his mother says. "We are very proud of him."

Written by Karis Sengara