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2006 - Hayden Philip MacIntyre
Our “Rock ‘N Roll” Kid
As we searched for our 2006 Rebecca Run Honouree, it was evident that one little boy’s courage, determination, strong will and love for his family made him a perfect choice to represent the sentiment behind the Rebecca Run . He is a perfect choice for the 5th year Honouree. After all, he and his family have walked and rolled in every Rebecca Run to date, and 2006 will mark his 5th straight year of blessing us with his presence. Hayden was only 8 months old when his parents were given the diagnosis: SMA Type I/II. With this came the grim prognosis that their son may not reach his second birthday.
Fortunately, Hayden is beating those odds every day. His spirit and engaging personality keeps all those around him learning what truly is important in life.
Watch out for Hayden in his “Rock ‘N Roll” wheelchair!
Enjoy the rest of Hayden’s story,
Louise Smith, Run Director
Theresa van Fraassen, Rebecca’s mom
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Hayden Philip MacIntyre
At six years old, Hayden is an exceptionally bright and engaging boy who has already battled more obstacles than many of us has to deal with in a lifetime.
At only 8 months of age, Hayden was diagnosed with a devastating neuromuscular disease: Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Type I/II.
Because of SMA, Hayden never rolled or crawled as a baby. With only 10% the muscle mass of an average child his age, Hayden is unable to walk and cannot sit unsupported. He cannot hold his head up or use his hands to play independently.
But by means of a specialized power wheelchair, Hayden is able to sit supported and enjoy some mobility. Watch for his license plate, which reads "Rock 'N Roll".
Hayden's swallowing is also affected, such that he receives most of his nutrition through a feeding tube (G-tube) that goes directly into his stomach. And most critically of all, because of SMA, Hayden's breathing is affected and he must use a breathing machine when he sleeps and in times of illness and fatigue.
On a daily basis, Hayden seems unaffected emotionally by his condition. He is a wise soul and seems to simply accept himself for who he is. His parents' hope is always that others may do the same of him. Take away the physical obstacles, the wheelchair, the braces and Hayden is a little boy who is passionate about life, his collections of dinosaurs, cars and trucks, and music, and loves his family beyond words.
Although Hayden's body may be weak, his spirit and courage are undeniably strong. |
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Meet Hayden's Family
Hayden is the eldest of two children. His younger sister, Lauren, who is almost three years of age, is unaffected by SMA.
Lauren is a feisty, strong-willed girl, almost out of necessity. From day one, she had to hit the ground Run ning.
Both children are beyond their years for what they have already experienced and seen at their tender ages.
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Hayden's parents, Ian and Tina, have devoted themselves to their children. They truly work as a team, particularly when it comes to managing Hayden's very involved care.
Ian and Tina always say that Hayden is their little professor, teaching them each day what is important in life. In six short years, they have learned so very much. |
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