The Kids
 Benjamin
Hagkull is a 7-year old who attends Cheam Elementary
School in Chilliwack, B.C.. Ben loves to draw, invent cool
things with LEGO and bounce on the trampoline. Benjamin and
his older brother Caleb are big Canuck’s fans and were
quite disappointed when their team missed the playoffs!
He doesn’t have sensation in his lower legs and as
a result gets around in a wheelchair. Ben and his family know
the route to BC Children’s hospital well. In addition
to having Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, he was born with
club feet and by the time he was 4 1/2 months old, Ben had
33 casts on his legs.
Ben loves the water and has is becoming quite an accomplished
swimmer. He enjoys cheering on his big bro at soccer and softball
games and Ben enjoys riding his bike with his neighborhood
friends.
Years ago Ben’s parents wondered how to get their
youngest son involved in the athletic realm and after watching
an inspirational story on TV, Ben announced that he wanted
to become a triathlete! That day, Ben’s journey began
and In fact, before Ben entered kindergarten, he had two events
under his belt! You can read more about Team Hagkull and see
photos of Ben in action by visiting their family website at
www.teamhagkull.com
 Hi!
My name is Amanda Leitch and I am 14 years
old. Having Spina Bifida has sure had its difficulties. I
have had nine surgeries, some being very hard, some not so
bad. I have had some amazing doctors, my favourite being Dr.
Reilly (Orthopaedic Surgeon at BC Children's Hospital). He
always makes me feel better.
There is some upside to being in a wheelchair. I get the
good parking spots. And getting first in line in Disneyland
is good. Hey, there has to be something positive about being
in a wheelchair - You’ve got to look at life as if the
glass is half - full!
I love horses! I won first prize as well as two other ribbons
at the horse show last Spring. I love to watch 7th Heaven
and Gilmore Girls. I like talking to my friends on MSN, spending
time with my Grandma, going to concerts, playing cards and
in the summer I love going to the beach. I also regularly
attend my "Girls Group" where we talk and do crafts
together.
The Spina Bifida Association has been very good to me. They
have helped provide a printer for my computer, installed a
lift in my new house, a bike trailer, and new seats in my
Mom and Dad's van. And guess what? Right now I am shopping
for a new wheelchair that’s made of titanium. I’ll
be like a superhero on wheels! Ha Ha!
My next goal is to increase my independence in all areas
of my life. This has provided me with a great many challenges,-
But when I am inspired, I can accomplish anything!
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