Charlie Chadborne, 9, was expected to never walk, talk, write, or eat on his own. He has a diagnosis of Partial Trisomy 14 which greatly affects his muscles and motor function. Even though his doctors originally did not think he would be able to perform these daily basic functions, the therapy he has been receiving over the course of his life has helped him be able to do everything he was once not expected to do. Charlie also receives special education services as well; this has given him the opportunity to use an iPad with speaks-to-talk technology. Now, he is able to be in a typical classroom setting more this school year than ever before.
Despite having to overcome so many obstacles, Charlie’s outlook on life is always positive. According to his mom, Katie, “Charlie always says, ‘God makes everyone different, and he made me this way for a reason. “‘ He is an active participant in Boy Scouts, and he is currently a Bear Scout. He also does equine therapy at Helping Hands and Horses where he’s been riding for several years. Charlie also says, “Everyone has talents, and while I might not be good at sports, I’m a great friend.” Not only does he stay active with these activities and have lots of friends, but he is also a wonderful big brother to his two younger sisters and a very important part of his family who all love and appreciate his sense of humor, joy, and love for life.