Mia Burton Elks 2009 Theme Child

On May 16, 2009 at the  State Convention held in Ontario CA the California-Hawaii Elks Association raised more than $2,900,000 for the CHEA Elks Major Project, Inc aid to handicapped Children.

Thousand Oaks Elks Lodge #2477 was proud to have donated $11,100, to the Elks Major Project. Of that amount the T.O. Elk Konejo Kampers donated $1,150 and the T.O. Elks Ladies donated $2,000.

The Theme Child for the Year 2009 was Mia Burton. Mia made her debut into the world in Redding California two months before her mom Christina’s due date. She was a welcome addition to the family, which includes her dad, Stanley and her big sister, Hailey, who was five years old at the time. Mia is also warmly welcomed by her loving grandparents, Warren and Nancy Stephens.

Mia weighed four pounds, 15 ounces at birth. Complications were initially few. She required a feeding tube for a few days until she was able to coordinate her sucking and swallowing. She stayed in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit for one week and was then discharged to go home.

Initially, all appeared well. After several months it was obvious that there was a problem with Mia’s left hand and leg. Her left hand remained tightly fisted. When she kicked, her left leg remained stiff. She was able to use her right hand well, but was unable to pick up toys with her left hand and when she began feeding herself, it was with her right hand only.

Despite these differences, Mia was very active. She encountered challenges with some motor skills and skipped some of the vital components, such as crawling on her hands and knees.

When she began walking, she was up on her toes. Because of tightness in her calf muscle, Mia had problems dragging her toes and tripping frequently.

Mia’s doctor informed her parents that most likely, Mia suffered a stroke before she was born. The doctor ordered physical and occupational therapy funded by a state agency. This helped Mia until services were abruptly discontinued when she turned three years of age. It was vital that therapy be continued. Her family was at a loss until Mia was referred to the California-Hawaii Elks Major Project for help.

Granpa, who is a member of the Redding Elks Lodge, called Denise Wilson, Physical Therapist. He explained Mia’s problems and was eager to resume physical therapy for Mia. Since Mia’s parents work full time, she stays with grandpa and grandma during the day and they coordinate Mia’s therapy and other appointments.

When Denise evaluated Mia she was surprised that Mia had not been referred to an orthopedic doctor. Mia’s calf muscle was extremely tight and because of this Mia continued to trip and fall. She will soon receive serial casting, which will progressively lengthen her heel cord tendon. She will then be fitted for a brace. This will prevent her from going up on her toes and tripping so much. In the meantime Mia continues with stretching and strengthening exercises. The exercises are tailored for her age and abilities and her home therapy program is adjusted as needed.

Mia is a bright and delightful preschooler. Mom describes her a “girly” girl who love all that this entails. She enjoys dolls, playing dress up and make believe.

Mia Burton presented as the 2009 Elks Theme Child at the CHEA Convention

 Mia is pictured here with her parents Christina and Stanley Burton along with Thousand Oaks ER Terry Gicking.