From hip hop, contemporary, acro and jazz, to tap and ballet, Sheriauna can do it all. And in her spare time, she also enjoys swimming and drawing – and pursuing her big dreams of being a performer.
Sheriauna, who was born without an arm just below the elbow, first came to Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital when she was 18 months old. She fondly talks about the strong bonds she formed with her prosthetist, and making friends at the hospital.
At just 16 years old, Sheriauna is already achieving her dreams of being a performer. The teen recently starred in an episode of Circuit Breakers on Apple TV, and hosted CIBC’s Miracle Day in December. And Sheriauna’s mom, author Sherylee Honeyghan, based her book series “I am Sheriauna” on her daughter to help spread a message of understanding and acceptance.
Now, Sheriauna shares how Holland Bloorview has supported her throughout her life, and what it means to her to be a Capes for Kids ambassador.
What do you love most about Holland Bloorview?
Sheriauna: One of the things I really love about Holland Bloorview is when you have your prosthetist. You can make such a strong bond with them. My prosthetist is Neil. I love him so much. He’s just the best. I love how I can just talk to him about random stuff or my arm. [The prosthetists are] just always so there for you.
Coming to Holland Bloorview has been a blessing in so many ways. They helped me with dance and with my sports and activities. It’s helped me so much – like meeting kids that are like me and making friends. It’s just been such an opportunity to be a part of this organization.
What are some of your favorite memories at Holland Bloorview?
Sheriauna: I had a birthday party here once. It was a swimming party and it was really fun. That’s a core memory here. Also when I was younger, I did sports day clinics. I got to meet new kids and we had lunches together. Those were so fun.
What are your hopes for the future?
Sheriauna: I hope to be a very successful actor, dancer and performer. And meet so many new people, help people that are like me and learn from people that are like me, too. I’m always open to try new things and learn from different people.
Has Holland Bloorview supported you in being on track to achieve those dreams?
Sheriauna: For sure. I’ve been dancing since I was two. Every single time I need a new recreational prosthetic arm, they are there every single time. I just recently had to get my prosthetic a lot longer because my right arm was growing, so I needed it to be even. And they were there for me for the support and help for that.
How do you feel about being an ambassador for Capes for Kids?
Sheriauna: Being an ambassador for Capes for Kids is an honour. I’m just so happy that I can be one of the faces of something so big. In my personal life, I can spread awareness. I feel like it’s just such a nice opportunity.