Seasons of Giving

August 28th, 2003

Little Boy with Cerebral Palsy sees his Wish Come True
Nick N. receives a Very Special Gift: His very own Healing Spa

Catonsville, MD - 3-year-old Nick N., who suffers from Cerebral Palsy (CP), had his wish granted by Thermospas.

When Nick went to the local pool with his mother, he cried because he did not want to get out. Constantly suffering from stiffly taut muscles, the 3-year-old received some relief while in the water. Little Nick is unable to crawl well or walk at all, and the water buoyancy allows him a freedom of movement he is unable to find anywhere else. Thanks to ThermoSpas, Nick is now able to experience that freedom right in his own backyard.

Nick's parents, Chris & Maria, believed they were unable to have children and adopted Nick from the Ukraine when he was 9-months-old. The little blond bundle weighed only 9 lbs., due primarily to an exclusive diet of borscht, and he had a number of health problems. The couple knew as soon as they met him at the orphanage in Kiev that Nick was to be their son. "I knew there was no way we were leaving him there," said Chris. "He was our dream come true," said Maria.

Unfortunately, Nick suffered from one health problem that American doctors could not cure; Cerebral Palsy. According to Nick’s pediatrician, Eric Crawford, M.D., "The use of water and heat modality for muscle relaxation, joint relaxation, joint laxity, and antigravity strengthening would be very beneficial for him (Nick)." It also is hoped that the muscle relaxing effect of a hot tub may allow Nick to gain better flexibility and control of his own muscles and avoid medication.

First Healing Spa hot tub recipient Nick N.
Nick N. in his Healing Spa hot tub

ThermoSpas donated one of its first Healing Spas™ ever manufactured to Nick. Not only does the donated Healing Spa provide Nick with a chance to move and play freely on his own, but it also offers proven therapy. Designed in collaboration with The Arthritis Foundation, the Healing Spa provides warm water therapy for people with severe muscle and joint pain and is the first hot tub ever to receive the Arthritis Foundation’s "Ease of Use" Commendation. It features a special child seat and 69 therapy jets.

Nick will share his Healing Spa™ with his newborn sister Grace (who was a special, unexpected surprise to his parents).