Variety has funded medical equipment throughout Ender’s life, giving his mom peace of mind
On weekday mornings, Sonja helps her twins Ender and Ellora get ready for school. Ender has a condition where he never feels hunger. “He could easily skip meals without complaining,” Sonja says. “So I need to be very careful to make sure he eats enough.”
Out in the world, the family goes everywhere by walking or transit. “If it’s cold or rainy, I bundle Ender into his wheelchair poncho. It clips to his wheelchair so he can stay warm and dry,” Sonja says. An accessible bus takes the twins to school, where they’re in Grade 2.
Ender, who has cerebral palsy, autism, and other complex needs, approaches the world with inventiveness and a sense of adventure. Everywhere he goes, his gentle, serious nature draws people in. His classmates adore him, calling out greetings and walking beside him in the hallways.
“At school, he’s a rock star,” Sonja says.
Ender uses communication tools like a button with recorded messages and picture boards. He’s still learning, but each tool gives him a new way to connect with the world around him.
By mid-afternoon, Ender and Ellora return home on the bus, and that’s when the party starts. “Ender loves music,” says Sonja. “Whether it’s kids’ songs like The Wheels on the Bus and Row, Row, Row Your Boat, Bollywood hits, or 80s classics. He loves to groove and wiggle around to any style.”
After supper, Sonja gets Ender ready for bed. He has a specialized tent-bed that keeps him safe and secure while he sleeps. Without it, he might try to crawl away during the night, putting him at risk of injury.
“I make sure he has a couple soft toys in his bed and I play white noise or calming music to settle him down for the night,” she says.
“I turn off the lights and say goodnight, knowing Ender is safe, comfortable and cared for. I’m so grateful to Variety donors for helping me provide my son with the supports he needs.”
Variety has funded essential equipment throughout Ender’s life — from a specialized tent bed to a safe, adjustable change table, to a wheelchair poncho that keeps him warm and dry on transit. Each resource helps Ender stay comfortable and engaged with the world, while giving Sonja the tools she needs to help him thrive.
Ender’s story is just one example of the profound difference timely support can make, and we’re so honoured to be able to step in to support families where they need it most.