Issue link: http://hvparent.uberflip.com/i/876653
Local parents Mom Tammy says: "Unlike most kids in the Hudson Valley, Jack has 'bionic ears'. Jack has enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome and lost most of his hearing by age two. Jack had surgery right away and received a cochlear implant, which is digital hearing. His six year old sister was born deaf and also has cochlear implants. Because of intense speech therapy since they were babies and the gift of hearing with cochlear implants, both kids attend school in mainstream classes! Jack is an extremely friendly, outgoing, compassionate five year old who LOVES to make everyone laugh. He loves showing his "ears" off and telling other kids about them. He also loves taking Bruce Lee's Jeet Kun Do Kung Fu lessons. Nothing can stop this incredible kid!" T here's no denying it… The Hudson Valley is chocked full of Incredible Kids and parents just waiting for the opportunity to brag about them! For two months, we've asked parents to tell us why their kids are so incredible for a chance to be featured in this issue and the opportunity to be on a 2018 cover of Hudson Valley Parent. We wanted to hear about kids that Stand for Justice, Lead the Team and Never Give Up. Our staff was overwhelmed with all of the great submissions. We read stories about kids overcoming cancer, kids who have started their own business and kids that finally learned to use the big boy potty! Choosing our three finalists was not easy. Alas, after much deliberation, Hudson Valley Parent is proud to announce our first ever Incredible Kids! We'd also like to extend a hearty thank you to our Incredible Kids sponsor, Children's Medical Group. Finalist: Jack S. of Highland and mom, Tammy 30 Hudson Valley Parent n October 2017