Methuen, MA - Shannon, a ten-year-old twin born with spastic Cerebral Palsy (CP), had her wish granted by ThermoSpas and the Dream Factory of Merrimack Valley.

Shannon's favorite time of day is bath time because the hot water allows her aching muscles to relax and she can flex her joints around more freely with less pain. Unfortunately, the bath water does not stay warm for very long and, as she grows up, the tub offers less and less room for movement. But now, thanks to ThermoSpas and the Dream Factory, Shannon is able to experience the benefits of warm water therapy for as long as she likes, right in her very own hot tub spa in her backyard.

Shannon was born with spastic CP, cortical blindness, seizure disorder and esophageal reflux. She uses a G-tube since she cannot tolerate solid food, employs a wheelchair because she is unable to sit without assistance, cannot walk, and utilizes a communication board to speak as she is nonverbal. Despite these difficulties, Shannon has above average intelligence and is a very brave and cheerful little girl.

Shannon was confined to a body cast for six weeks this past fall and has hoped her dream of floating, swimming and splashing with her twin sister Kerry would someday come true. Fortunately, this little sweetheart had her wish granted by ThermoSpas and the Dream Factory.

ThermoSpas has donated one of its Healing Spa™ hot tubs to Shannon. Designed in collaboration with the Arthritis Foundation, the Healing Spa features a special raised child's seat, sixty-nine warm water massage therapy jets and easy-to-use handrails and control knobs.

Her mother, Jeanne, said that the benefits already are immeasurable. Shannon's whole body relaxed when she was in the hot tub and she started to fall asleep. Not only does it help relax her muscles and give her moments of peace, but it also gives Shannon a chance to play with her sister in the water.

This Healing Spa hot tub was delivered recently and set up for her to use, so please stop back soon for an update as we get more information about this Seasons of Giving child. In the meantime, here are a few photos of Shannon enjoying her new hot tub:

To nominate a child for a hot tub donation, or for information on ThermoSpas Seasons of Giving program please click here.