Grafton Boy With Cerebral Palsy Sees His Wish Come True
Eric Bissell Receives a ThermoSpas “Cinderella Pool”
WHO: Eric Bissell, an 8 year-old second grader from Grafton who suffers from cerebral palsy (CP), is having his wish granted …
WHAT: Eric, who is confined to a wheelchair, wants the freedom and relaxation he got from a hotel hot tub, but in his own backyard. Through the cooperation and generous donations of ThermoSpas, Priority Electric and the Starlight Children’s Foundation, Eric is receiving his wish just in time for summer.
WHERE: The Bissell Family Home
Grafton, MA
WHEN: Friday, May 10, 2002
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
WHY: Eric calls his hot tub, appropriately enough, a “Cinderella Pool.” The name comes from his great fondness for the “stepsister-turned-princess”. Yet, the selection also shows the uncanny similarity between Eric and the fairy tale character who, through the kind granting of a wish, is able to see her dreams come true and her life change for the better.
Not only does a hot tub provide Eric with a chance to move and play freely on his own, but it also offers proven therapy. Eric’s doctor, Christopher Stille, MD of UMASS Memorial Health Care, says the benefits of hydrotherapy (water therapy) include:
- Muscle relaxation, which can reduce muscle spasms in children with spastic CP
- Decreased gravity, which increases breath control
- Improved trunk control, balance and coordination
- Increased mobility and range of motion for children who are wheelchair-bound
- Increased strength and endurance
Eric lives with his parents, Cynthia and Richard Bissell, his twin brother Aaron, and his adopted brother Anthony. Aaron, like Eric, was born prematurely and has had some severe health problems including a now-removed tracheostomy. Eric’s brother Anthony also has cerebral palsy and is confined to a wheelchair.
ThermoSpas has donated and installed an Avalon Spa, which is big enough to fit the whole family, yet still fit in their backyard. It comes with 22 jets for therapy and an ice bucket and shelf for drinks.
CONTACT: Michelle Connolly
Watermark Public Relations
203-899-1830
michelle@watermarkpublicrelations.com
