Member Spotlight

Chance Thorn, Adventure Seeker

On May 6, 1999, Charlie and Shawn Thorn's son Chance was born premature during an emergency c-section. He and his identical brother, who did not survive, were diagnosed with Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS). This is a disease of the placenta (or afterbirth) that affects identical twin pregnancies. It is random and not hereditary or genetic. TTTS can happen to anyone. It happened to Chance Thorn and it happened to his brother. At nine months of age Chance was also diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (CP).

This summer, Chance, his 10-year-old sister, Skyler, and his 17 month old brother, Caden went with mom and dad to a water park in Lagoon, Salt Lake City, Utah. Chance spends much of his time in a wheelchair and cannot swim, but his family and the water park employees made sure those details didn't get in the way of a boy and his need for adventure.

Charlie says every part of their lives has been touched by Chance's diagnoses. Of course you would make sure things are handicap accessible at a water park. It's all the other things you wouldn't normally think about that you have to think about all the time. Things like what house to live in, what car to drive, what restaurant to eat at, and what shoes Chance wears.

Chance's mom says life is made easier with a "team" family working together. She also gets help from her local family support group, The Children and Family Alliance of Southern Apache County. "Getting together with people who share the same concerns and hopes can be very rewarding," says Charlie. She encourages others to do the same. Sometimes it does take a village to raise a child and Charlie says having the support of her community, her DES-DDD Support Coordinator and her respite provider is priceless.

Chance is in the second grade now. He has been a Capstone member for 5 years. Charlie says having the support of Chance's health care plan is a cry of relief. She is thankful knowing someone is always available. She travels to Chance's medical appointments and is grateful for the mileage reimbursement program.

Thinking back, Charlie remembered when Chance learned how to use a sippy-cup. Then he learned how to use a straw. She remembered when Chance learned to spit while brushing his teeth. Then he learned how to use his walker! Both she and her husband proudly say Chance is the reason their family is blessed with everyday victories. This October Chance will find himself in New Mexico at the annual Balloon Festival enjoying yet another adventure regardless of his diagnosis. For more information on The Children and Family Alliance visit their website or call (928) 333-3163.