"My granddaughter, Mattea, at 7 months old is finally going to be living without casts up past her thighs. Because of her club feet, she has been casted each week since she was 6 days old. At Sick Kids Hospital yesterday, my daughter Lindsay and myself, experienced the joy of seeing sweet Mattea playing with her feet and opening to a new world. Her eyes were so bright as the doctor told us that she was so pleased with the alignment of her feet and Mattea could now be fitted for her boots and bars. We all cried as the relief moved into our hearts.

The doctor said that every child is uncomfortable with the new boots and bars for 24 hours and that she will probably cry and struggle. Mattea loved getting her new shoes and smiled and was happy through the whole experience. Lindsay and I looked at each other with joyous tears saying at the same time, 'She's just like us...she loves her new shoes.' With the flat bar holding them in place she looks like a snowboarder now.

Mattea will wear her new boots and bars 23 hours a day for up to 3 months. Her feet look so beautiful! And we are so grateful to her wonderful doctors, Barbara along with the surgeon who has performed this miracle. Their talents and incredible care has made a difference in Mattea's life.

Throughout these months, Lindsay, her husband Jay, Mattea and 3 year old Eli, have been stretched with sleepless nights, emotional and physical pain and fear. Lindsay's heart was exploding with happiness all day as she rested in the peace and enthusiasm for this new chapter in her daughter's life. The whole family has held the space for our children during this challenging time and it has been a great gift for us all."

Colleen Hoffman Smith