Sudden weakness and neck-down paralysis proved Jude’s condition was much more serious than a supposed ear infection. Meningomyelitis, or an inflamed spinal cord, threatened his life.

 

An aggressive round of steroids successfully stopped the swelling, and Jude became stable, but was still unable to lift his head. When Jude arrived at his CMN Hospital for inpatient therapy, there was no guarantee he’d ever regain movement.

 

Jude’s doctor and therapists instantly put him at ease by introducing themselves dressed as his favorite Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Over the next 10 weeks, Jude made significant progress. His family and care team celebrated every victory, including Jude’s second “first” steps.

 

Still attending physical and occupational therapies several times each week, Jude is working hard to raise his left arm and gain enough strength to climb stairs and looks forward to running, jumping and somersaulting again.