Winter 2011 - Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation

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Community support makes the difference for kids! Fortunately for Sienna, the Alberta Children’s Hospital is a national leader in the type of operations she needed – thanks to support from the community. “Generous donors funded the specialized surgical tools we needed,” says neurosurgeon Dr. Mark Hamilton. “The hightech scopes equipped with lights and cameras were crucial in guiding us during the multiple surgeries required to address Sienna’s unique and extremely complicated condition.” Throughout her long series of surgeries, everyone around her – her family, doctors, nurses and therapists – were all amazed by Sienna’s incredible spirit. “I remember when she was just a baby, before she could talk, as she was recovering from several operations, Sienna would somehow muster the strength to smile and blow kisses at all of us,” recalls Dr. Hamilton. “She was – and still is – so sweet and bubbly.” “Sienna has taught me more in four short years than I’ll ever be able to teach her in a lifetime,” says Brenda. “Through it all, she was always ready with hugs or a giggle. Even when she couldn’t lift her head off her pillow, she never lost the twinkle in her eyes. She gave all of us hope and strength.” Today, Sienna is a playful and affectionate chatterbox. She likes reading, coloring, and commenting on people’s jewelry. “Two years ago, we were wondering what was in store for Sienna if she survived,” says Brenda. “The Alberta Children’s Hospital became our lifeline and gave us the ability to now dream and hope for wonderful things for her future.” Because of her courageous spirit, Sienna has been named the 2010-11 Champion Child for the Alberta Children’s Hospital. In November, she and her family had the opportunity to meet other amazing kids from across North America at Champions presented by Walmart Canada - a very special celebration organized by the Children’s Miracle Network. “Having the chance to meet other families like ours was incredible,” says Brenda. “We bonded instantly and found comfort in getting to know people who’ve been through what we have. It’s so nice to have hospital experts and other families supporting us in our journey. ” To watch a short video about Sienna and her story, visit www.childrenshospital.ab.ca. 4-year-old Sienna loves “her” hospital - where brain surgeons saved her life using high-tech equipment funded by the community.
Little Amanda and Zihbien enjoy their music therapy class with their moms and music therapist, Marc Houde. Making music makes connections ! Thanks to incredible donor support, the Alberta Children’s Hospital is home to one of the most vibrant music therapy programs in the country. With two music therapists on staff, children in hospital have the opportunity to engage in various music activities during their stay. For the past two years, the music therapy program has provided a special opportunity for young children being cared for in the Downs Syndrome Clinic. Twice a month, children and their parents are invited to attend a group music therapy session featuring singing, dancing and instruments of all kinds. “You’d be amazed at how these beautiful little ones light up when I start to play my guitar,” says Marc Houde, music therapist at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. “They are so pleased to see the connection between their movements and the sounds coming from the bells or drums.” Rowena Saballo has brought her two-yearold daughter, Amanda, to several of the group music therapy sessions over this past year. “It’s a great time for us to play together in a more intentional way,” says Rowena. “It’s given me good ideas for how to use music at home as I teach her about her world. She especially enjoys playing the drum. She has natural rhythm!” she says with a laugh. Music therapists at the hospital work in collaboration with our team of experts to support developmental and rehabilitation goals for children of all ages and levels of ability. For example, tapping a tambourine or holding on to rhythm sticks increases hand strength. Children with speech and language challenges often enjoy the opportunity to improve their vocalization skills when accompanied by music. Muscle tone, coordination and balance are also improved when stretching, jumping, or marching to a song. “Music and kids have such a natural connection,” says Marc. “When the music starts many instinctively know what to do, and what results always goes way beyond mere music making. They are learning about themselves and their world and having fun while doing it. That’s music to my ears!” For more information about how your support helps the kids, visit www.childrenshospital.ab.ca.
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Winter 2011 - Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation

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