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A family’s move from Vernon, British Columbia, to Peterborough in March 2021 saw them arrive in the middle of a COVID lockdown, their two-and-a-half-year-old twins, Meryn and Alec, in tow. Isolated from the community and facing developmental challenges, the family found a lifeline in Five Counties Children’s Centre.
Born with hypoglycemia, Meryn spent her earliest days in three different neonatal intensive care units. Her body, producing too much insulin for her tiny size, needed constant care. As she and her twin brother Alec grew, they faced delays in reaching developmental milestones. From the moment they arrived in Peterborough, Five Counties became their anchor—offering vital support in occupational therapy, physiotherapy, feeding and nutrition, and speech therapy.
Now seven years of age, Meryn is a vibrant, determined child with a love for swimming and a flair for creativity. Her rainbow-themed artwork, chosen for Five Counties’ 50th Anniversary thank you card, is a lively reflection of her journey—and a heartfelt reminder of the impact community support can have on a child’s life. Recently, she performed a duet with Kawartha Artistic Swimming, radiating confidence and joy. But behind her bright spirit is a quiet struggle—Meryn works hard every day to improve her speech. She’s currently focused on mastering her “S” and “R” sounds and early reading skills. Her speech challenges can make it difficult for others to understand her, a source of frustration for a child who only wants to share her voice when she feels confident.
During one memorable therapy session, Meryn was asked to name a picture. Instead of struggling with a word she couldn’t pronounce, she proudly said, “Elephant.” When gently corrected, she replied, “I know that! But I can say elephant! And that is a hard word.”
That moment captured her spirit—resilient, clever, and determined to succeed.
Five Counties has supported Meryn and her brother through a wide range of therapies. These services have been essential in helping the twins close the developmental gap with their peers. The Centre’s team of dedicated professionals not only work with the children but also empower parents with tools, strategies, and unwavering encouragement.
The Centre’s impact often extends beyond therapy. “One of our occupational therapy goals was learning to ride a bike without training wheels,” Meghan, Meryn’s mom recalls. “Our clinician Katie set up a course in the parking lot and taught both twins to ride. That built their confidence in unimaginable ways.”
“Five Counties was our link to the community and our only support,” Meghan adds. “The staff made us feel like family. They celebrated every milestone with us. They gave me comfort and security, knowing my twins were getting the support they deserve.”
But families like Meryn’s can’t do it alone.
“Our biggest challenge is advocating for our children in a system with limited school supports,” Meghan says. “Five Counties has been our lifeline.”
Your gift helps children like Meryn find their voice, build confidence, and thrive. When you support Five Counties, you’re not just funding therapy—you’re investing in futures, in families, and in the belief that every child deserves the chance to shine.
Meryn’s story is one of resilience, color, and community—a reminder that with the right support, every child can flourish. And thanks to Five Counties, Meryn is not just catching up—she’s making waves.
Interested in supporting families like Meryn’s? Donate today at www.fivecounties.on.ca/donatenow
Share your story by emailing us at development@fivecounties.on.ca
Category: General News,Testimonials