With the right support, Yixiao is navigating life with muscular dystrophy, finding independence, and connecting through the activities he loves.
At 10 years old, Yixiao is a bright and curious boy with a passion for math, video games, and connecting with friends over shared interests. Yixiao even made his foray into YouTube recently, enlisting his older brother’s help to launch his own channel, where he’s enjoying sharing his gaming strategies while connecting with gamers similar to himself.
For Yixiao, who lives with muscular dystrophy, this online space is more than just a hobby; it’s a place to belong. In a world not always built to include everyone, many children with physical disabilities face barriers in finding activities where they feel truly included. For Yixiao, his gaming community has become that inclusive space — a place to make friends, share experiences, and find joy in doing something he loves.
“He was three years old when his parents first began noticing signs that would later lead to his diagnosis of muscular dystrophy.”
Understanding Yixiao’s needs became a priority early on for his family. He was three years old when his parents first began noticing signs that would later lead to his diagnosis of muscular dystrophy. With Yixiao not being able to walk as quickly or as far as other children his age and often needing to rest more frequently, his parents looked to doctors for an answer, eventually learning his diagnosis. “It was a difficult time,” says his dad, Xun. “We didn’t know much about the condition at first, and we were worried about what the future would look like for him. But we focused on learning and supporting him as best we could.”
Initially, Yixiao relied on a loaned manual wheelchair that wasn’t the right fit for his growing needs. Xun explains, “After a year, our occupational therapist suggested we prepare a wheelchair that would really fit Yixiao,” continuing, “With the help of Easter Seals Ontario, we were able to make it happen.”
Together, we can help kids like Yixiao access the equipment they need to explore their passions and grow with confidence.
For Yixiao, the new power chair has helped him experience greater independence and participate in activities without worrying about getting tired or needing assistance. The freedom the chair allows has also brought a level of confidence. “He designed it almost by himself. He chose the colour and the style. He really likes it,” shares Xun, smiling. “He’s very proud,” Xun adds, “People around him praise and encourage him. It makes him so happy.”
Reflecting on the support they’ve received since moving to Canada from China four years ago, Xun says, “I didn’t expect that we would receive so much support here. We are very grateful to Easter Seals for helping us get this equipment. It has helped our son and our whole family so much.”
“For Yixiao, the new power chair has helped him experience greater independence and participate in activities without worrying about getting tired or needing assistance.”
Because of you, Yixiao and children with physical disabilities across Ontario can access the programs and services they need to thrive. Thanks to your support, Yixiao now has the tools to explore his world, stay comfortable and supported, and continue growing with confidence, independence, and joy.