Matthews Story
Matthew Sloan Walker is the son of Jonathan & Cynthia Walker, Heathrow, Florida. He is one of three children, Morgan Elizabeth 7 years old & Adam Patrick 2 years old. He is the grandson of Michael & Alexandra Hadzick of Freeland, Pennsylvania and Camilla G. Ridley of Naples, Florida.
Matthew is a 4 year old who is 1 of approximately 35 known males in the world born with a rare neuronal migration disorder of the brain called subcortical band heterotopia. This disorder is one in which the white and grey matter of Matthews brain are disorganized causing the communication pathways of the brain to be challenged, therefore causing significant impairment in his physical and cognitive abilities.
A pediatrician from John Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD and a world renowned pediatric neurologist in Chicago consult on Matthews condition as they are the only known experts related to Matthews condition. Both Pediatricians recommended that Matthew begin speech, occupational, and physical therapies at 4 months of age. Matthew is unable to walk or speak and is dependent upon both family and professionals to complete his daily activities and living skills. Occasionally Matthew experiences focal seizures that ore often controlled by medication. Matthew is currently thriving and making excellent progress developmentally.
Matthews condition and current prognosis is that he will live well into his adult years. He is currently enrolled at United Cerebral Palsy of Central Florida in Lake Mary, Florida. This facility has professionals trained in speech, occupational and physical therapies to help Matthew reach his potential. Through his therapy sessions, he is making strides to feed himself, but still requires feeding, toileting and bathing which is entirely dependent on his family. Recently, Matthew has been able to recognize photos of his mother and father and when asked to point will pick the appropriate photo! Matthew was granted through the funds of Miracle4Matthew additional therapies, which in turn resulted in such a positive milestone! This particular milestone was demonstrated, ironically on his mothers birthday this past March! Tears of joy were shed by mom and all who were witness to Matthews Miracle for Mom.
His family has set up a Special Needs Trust for the future needs of their son. The need for specialized equipment, therapies, and medication is ongoing. Matthew will continue to need the support of family throughout his life.
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