Make A Wish – Colton
Diane explains how Make-A-Wish works and the options they give to the kids receiving a wish. She covers the Make-A-Wish trip they did to Disney so that Colton could meet Baloo!
dianewilson404
Q & A: NCL Congress
Diane tells the story of her first NCL congress and how difficult it was even to take notes. Regardless, the conference was helpful and allowed Diane to see where the priorities surrounding NCL were. She was thankful to see that there were so many people looking for solutions, while they also treated her with kindness.
Make All the Calls You Need!
Bob Lavalle and Bell Mobility worked together to gift Diane and John cell phone bill coverage which took a lot of weight off their shoulders. Their cell phones were essential tools and not having to pay the bill each month was wonderful: it was a true example of someone working with their employer to do … Read more
Magic Mittens and Magic Boots
Diane shows the orthotics that Carling and Colton used on their hands and feet. They helped to keep them growing in the right way. Instead of orthotics, the family called them “magic mittens” and “magic boots.”
The Journey to Sick Kids
The journey to Sick Kids, which became the family’s medical home, was not an easy one. There were many steps along the way!
Camp Can-Do Funding
Diane talks about various funding sources that allowed Carling and Colton to go to Camp Can-Do in the summer. The system can be complicated, but it ultimately makes a huge difference in people’s lives.
“A Second To Explain”: Early Healthcare Experiences
Carling’s first time in intense, acute care was when she was only 18 days old, years before any symptoms of the NCL disorder would manifest. Having doctors take a second to explain the situation was so important to the family.
NABS
The National Advertising Benevolent Society (NABS), was one of the biggest supporters of the family. They provide immense support for many people within the advertising industry. When Diane filled out an application for support, NABS came through for the family in huge ways.
“Tough as a Brick”
Diane tells a story that exemplifies Colton’s immense pain tolerance and toughness. She also talks about his love and fascination for bright lights and ceiling fans!
The Beginning of the Medical Journey
Diane talks about how naive she was when she started out on this health care journey, thinking that getting a urine sample from a baby was the most complex thing in the world. Little did she know how much Carling would soon teach her!