A local toddler who fell into an icy backyard pool in Petrolia is defying the odds as he recovers at home with his family.
Thankfully, Gillian Burnett said her nearly two-year-old son returned to their home in the Brigden-Mooretown area this week.
"He's got a long road ahead of him still, but he's definitely blown everybody away. For him to be this progressed in two weeks is absolutely amazing," said Burnett. "The doctors, nurses, and everybody are just blown away by him."
Due to the brain damage Waylon sustained, his left side was compromised. However, Burnett said he is trying to use his left limbs and will continue with physical therapy.
"He is trying to walk. He needs a little bit of assistance because his balance isn't the greatest on his left side but he is trying. We have hopes that the left side, with time, will come back, because he is trying to use his left arm, he is trying to use his left leg," she said. "He's able to pick things up with both hands."
Now that Waylon is home, Burnett said he's enjoying some quality time with his three-year-old sister.
"He thinks that his big sister is his best friend and he looks up to her and you can see it. He loves watching her play and he thinks she's just the funniest girl on earth," Burnett said. "Seeing the two of them back together playing is something that I cherish. I love that."
A GoFundMe page launched to support the family raised over $20,000, as of Tuesday afternoon.
Burnett said the community support has been "incredible."
"We have love for each and every person that has shown support, prayers, has come together to help with money, we've had people help with meal trains," she said. "The amount of help and love that has been pushed our way is absolutely incredible."
An investigation into the incident is ongoing but Burnett could not discuss details further.
