Theodore poses for a photoshoot with his father and brother.
Theodore and his father gather at the Shriners Hospitals for Children's centennial gala.
Theodore meets with attendees as a Patient Ambassador at the 100th anniversary gala.
A Young Athlete Sets Sights on Team Canada After Years of Care at Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada
At 15, Theodore is already competing at a high level in wheelchair basketball and para ice hockey.
A member of Team Quebec, he now has a clear goal: to join Team Canada and one day compete at the Paralympic Games.
Born with spina bifida, a condition that affects the development of the spine and spinal cord, Theodore has been receiving care at Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada since early childhood. Over the years, he has benefited from comprehensive multidisciplinary care tailored to his needs, including specialized follow-up, rehabilitation, mobility support and access to adaptive equipment, allowing him to stay active and compete in sports at a high level.
In 2023, as increasing leg spasms began affecting his mobility, Theodore underwent spinal surgery to release a tethered spinal cord. Supported by the expertise of his care team and coordinated care before, during and after surgery, he made a remarkably quick recovery. His leg spasms decreased significantly, allowing him to regain mobility and continue pursuing the sports he loves. Today, Theodore continues to attend annual follow-up appointments with a team of specialists who monitor his mobility, scoliosis, and urinary and kidney health, ensuring he receives the ongoing care he needs to thrive.
We have always felt like part of the Shriners family. Without the support of his doctors and staff, Theodore would not be where he is today. The support is exceptional.
Theodore discovered wheelchair basketball when he was 4. By 12, he had already won a gold medal in his first appearance at the Quebec Games. More recently, he and his teammates from the southwest region earned silver at the Quebec Games, marking his third participation in the event.
He is also a member of Team Quebec in para ice hockey and balances both sports with the steady support of his family. His parents and brother play a key role in his journey, accompanying him to training sessions and competitions.
In 2025, he competed at the Canadian para ice hockey championships in Nova Scotia, where his team won the gold medal. Looking ahead, he may have the opportunity to represent his province at the 2027 Canada Games.
Beyond medical care, Theodore and his family emphasize the strong sense of belonging they have found at the hospital. His participation in various events and activities has reinforced the feeling of being surrounded by people committed to his success.
Today, Theodore continues to develop with determination, supported by years of specialized care and an environment that has helped him turn challenges into concrete ambitions. For him, Team Canada is no longer a distant dream, but a clearly defined goal.
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