Parenting is challenging. Parenting a child living with a physical disability brings additional responsibilities that can make things even more challenging. At PBO Group, we work closely with families navigating their way through the unique journey of raising a child who needs extra care. From children needing bracing support for conditions like Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Scoliosis, and Spina Bifida, to babies who need cranial remolding helmets and kids requiring prosthetic devices, the parents and caregivers that turn to the PBO team for care are a constant source of inspiration for us. The energy, effort, and endless hours they dedicate to making their children’s lives easier motivates us to help make their role as caregivers a little less difficult too. Here’s how PBO Group helps address three common challenges that those caring for a child living with a physical disability often face.
The Parenting Challenge: Expenses Associated With Much-Needed Devices
Unfortunately, not all bracing and prosthetic solutions are covered by OHIP. PBO Group’s Funding Co-ordinators are well-versed in the wide range of funding alternatives and the application process required to request financial support from insurance companies, government assistance programs, as well as charitable organizations, including War Amps, Ontario March of Dimes, Easter Seals and more. Here’s what one family had to say about that support:
“They are extremely up front with costs and willing to advocate when funding is available but harder to get. THANK YOU PBO!”
PBO Client
The Parenting Challenge: The Time and Expense of Travelling To Medical Appointments
Between hours in rush hour traffic and high gas prices, getting children to routine medical appointments can really add up in terms of time and money. PBO Group’s multiple-clinic model helps families across Ontario avoid some of those long trips. In addition to two clinics in Toronto, we have clinics in St. Catharines, Barrie, Owen Sound, and Peterborough to serve families living outside of the GTA. Here’s what one family had to say about the convenience of our Barrie clinic:
“First time to this location. I usually get the braces for my son in Newmarket. They had no problem fixing a piece on them so we didn’t have to drive down to Newmarket. Amazing service, super friendly and welcoming. Booked an appointment for my son. We will be using this location for his needs from now on!!”
PBO Client
The Parenting Challenge: Finding Clinicians Who Are Good With Kids
When children aren’t comfortable with someone that’s part of their care team, it can be stressful for everyone. PBO Group’s clinicians, which include Certified Orthotists, Certified Prosthetists, and Certified Pedorthists, are excellent with children. Here’s just a sample of some of the comments we’ve received from parents about our team’s care of their kids:
“I was very anxious to have my severely autistic son have casting done but the orthotist and reception staff made our experience phenomenal. Thank you guys for your fantastic service.”
PBO Client
“The care, and service my daughter received from PBO was always gentle, cheerful, and professional. Appointments were on time, and carried out in a timely manner without feeling rushed either. Product was well made and well fitted.”
PBO Client
“My husband and I highly recommend PBO Group Kawartha. We have gone for our daughter, who first needed a helmet. And we are back now for her leg braces. (AFO’s) Callie has been wonderful, ever since we first walked in the door. Always so helpful and very knowledgeable. Willing to help us whenever we need it. And of course, Kendra has been the best and always greets us with the biggest smile. We are so thankful for everyone at the office and all of the help and support they provide us. I will always highly recommend and we can’t thank them enough.”
PBO Client
“We brought our son here for a scan to fit him for a helmet 6 months ago and I cannot say enough good things about their entire team. They are all so lovely and compassionate. We have been dealing with Erin, and she is one of the sweetest people I have had the pleasure of working with. Throughout the entire process Erin went above and beyond answering all of my questions and concerns. Our son had many minor health issues during the helmet wearing process and because of her it was still so seamless and he was able to graduate today! From the bottom of my heart thank you so much for everything!”
PBO Client
If you’re finding parenting a child with a disability stressful, consider making PBO Group a part of your care team. Book an appointment for your child here.
