Sloane was a healthy, active five-year-old until December 2024, when her world changed in an instant. While watching her brother’s hockey game, Sloane collapsed. She lost movement on her left side, clutched her head, and cried in pain. A family friend immediately knew something was wrong and urged Sloane’s mom, Lisa, to quickly call 911.
Doctors at Sloane’s local hospital in Prince Edward Island ordered a CT scan (a special machine that takes detailed pictures). The test results were discussed with pediatrics and neurosurgery at IWK and it was recommended that Sloane needed the specialized pediatric care of the IWK. She was transferred by ambulance with Lisa by her side and Patrick following close behind.
Sloane was admitted to the IWK’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and underwent an MRI, which confirmed the unimaginable: Sloane had suffered a stroke.
Lisa and Patrick were thrust into a nightmare, grappling with questions no parent should ever have to ask. Would she wake up? Would she even be the same? Lisa prayed that she would hear her precious daughter say the word ‘mommy’ again.
Sloane underwent four brain surgeries and spent 17 days in an induced coma. Her care was complex and intensive. Upon waking up, she needed to re-learn and strengthen skills such as sitting, standing, and walking through physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
She also received ongoing neurological monitoring, advanced imaging, and inpatient rehabilitation designed for a child recovering from a traumatic brain injury, and speech therapy to ensure her speech was not affected. Nearly three weeks passed before Lisa heard Sloane’s sweet little voice again.
Sloane spent 82 days at the IWK with her mother at her side and frequent visits from her dad, four siblings, and extended family, before she was finally able to return home.
The uncertainty of Sloane’s recovery was terrifying. However, the IWK team took time to explain each step and offered emotional support, ensuring the family never felt alone.
In the PICU, Lisa was able to stay in a sleep room for parents so she could remain close to her. “This family-centred approach made an incredibly difficult experience a little more bearable,” she shared. “I can’t imagine not having been able to stay right by her side.”
Fortunately, Sloane has made remarkable progress. “Every day I’m in awe of the miracle that she is," Lisa shared.
For Sloane, the road ahead involves continued rehabilitation to help regain mobility on her left side, regular follow-ups with neurology and other health professionals, and close collaboration with her school to ensure she has the support she needs to succeed. Lisa and Patrick will continue to advocate for Sloane so she can have every opportunity to thrive throughout her life. Sloane is hoping to start para swimming in the new year. Lisa and Patrick believe Sloane’s spunk, resilience, and positive attitude have played a significant role in her recovery as well.
For Lisa, who participates in the Million Reasons Run, a virtual running/walking challenge held every May across Canada that raises funds for children’s hospitals, it’s important to give back to the hospital that saved her daughter’s life.
Sloane’s family is deeply grateful to the PICU nurses for their unwavering and compassionate care, and to all the healthcare professionals helping guide them through the hardest days of their lives. “There are no words to express our gratitude to the neurology team, PICU team, rehab team, and the many care teams involved in the IWK.”
Join us in supporting Maritime children like Sloane by participating in or donating to the Million Reasons Run. Visit www.millionreasons.run to sign up or donate today.
