Tyler Jordan’s family first came to Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley when he was 8 years old to be treated for cerebral palsy, because of its close location to their home in Niles.
His mom, Glenna, remembers being told when Tyler was born that he would never walk, talk, etc. We are happy to say he has exceeded all of these expectations.
Aside from a limp when he walks, nothing else is noticeable about his diagnosis.
Tyler with his parents
Glenna says they have learned to “accept, but not give in to his prognosis.” She dreams that Tyler will be able to do anything he wants to do in his life.
Tyler was interviewed during our 2014 Miracles and Promises Radiothon with Mix 98.9 Youngstown / News Radio 570 WKBN, and he was even featured on the TV coverage about the fundraising drive.
We think his interview stole some hearts just as he has done with our staff. Tyler is a real prankster, who loves toying around with doctors and entertaining when at the hospital.
But it’s not all fun and games for the Jordans. Glenna remembers how hard it was to go through surgeries, recovery and Botox injections with Tyler. But, she says, the doctors truly care at Akron Children’s, so that makes a difference.
Right now, every 3 to 6 months Tyler comes to the Boardman Medical Pavilion for treatment and follow ups. He likes everything about his stays.
“It never feels like you are going to the doctor’s office or a hospital,” the 14-year-old Tyler said. “It feels like you are going to a friend’s house.”
As a frequent patient at Akron Children’s, Tyler has received the opportunity to do some pretty cool things other teens can’t do, including meet players from the San Francisco 49ers and be a “Pilot for a Day” with the U.S. Air Force at the 910th Airlift Wing in Vienna.
“It was the best thing of my life!” he said.
Tyler wants to give back to others too. He loves to talk with younger kids with challenges, to encourage them and make them feel less scared.
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