Hover over the children's pictures below to learn more about them through their biographies, written by their families.
Stella suffered a brain injury known as HIE from oxygen deprivation at birth, and was later diagnosed with spastic quad cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Stella loves cartoons (especially baby share). Stella also loves splashing in the pool, cuddling with her cats, and playing with her switch adapted toys. She has begun taking steps, with the assistance of her gait trainer, and amazes us everyday with resilience and positivity.
Eli is 6 years old and during his first year of life he had several surgeries including open heart. He also has a magical extra 21st chromosome - Down syndrome. His favorite things are French fries and dinosaurs. He is in first grade and fully included at his amazing school! His mom wrote a book all about him being included in school called Eli, Included. Eli has three older sisters who are fierce advocates for him. Eli is funny, loving and so sweet.
Lottie is a true artist; she is always taking time to truly see the people and beauty around her. She is sweet and gentle, happy to cuddle with Daddy, and make new friends. She loves cheeseburgers, her siblings, and her fluffy dog Max.
Nettie is a lot like her artwork: bold. She is always ready to jump into the fun, never afraid of a new adventure, or to get messy. She loves reading in Mom's lap, jumping on the trampoline with her twin sister and two older brothers, and snuggling her fluffy dog Max.
Malachi approaches his art as he does life: with natural ease, sparkling eyes and an effortless laugh. His playful charm and daring charisma bring a smile to the face of everyone he meets. Born with Spina Bifida and congenital heart defects, Malachi is two-years old and lives with his parents and fur-siblings in the Seattle area
Caroline is a 2 year old little girl who lives with Cerebral Palsy. While she faces many obstacles in her daily life, she continues to persevere and finds her own ways to do things! Caroline enjoyed helping to make this painting. The whole painting was done “hand over hand”. She smiled or giggled nearly every time she made a “dot”. She loves bright colors, so she made a colorful Christmas tree with snowflakes falling all around. We hope this painting will bring joy to you during this holiday season!
Aries is 2 years old and is a four-time brain surgery survivor and NICU alumnus. Beloved by many, he has managed to inspire those around him for his signature resilience and “million dollar smile” as he continues to thrive through his diagnoses of Hydrocephalus and Cerebral Palsy. Aries loves going to school, playing the piano, and making dance videos.
Exton is just like any other toddler wild and super mischievous, but in a lot of ways he has an old soul he can have a calmness to him that makes him seem like he is years older than he should be ! We constantly call him Extra Exton. He’s got it all - the extra chromosome, the extra equipment, and the extra sass! He is our light!
Hi! I'm Conner and I am 4 years old. I was born at 24 weeks weighing 1lb 6oz. I've been beating the odds every day since. I LOVE music - especially playing the guitar and the piano. My favorite songs are Old McDonald and Mrs. Robinson. My favorite thing about the holidays is seeing Christmas trees everywhere!
Riley Cameron is 3 years old and was diagnosed with Spina Bifida Myelomeningocele, Hydrocephalus, and Chiarimalformation ll, but she doesn’t let her diagnosis define her. Riley is full of life, love, and happiness. She loves to make those around her constantly smile & laugh. Riley enjoys dancing, singing, and playing outdoors. This princess doesn’t let anything stop her!
My name is Ozzie. I’m almost 3 years old, and I live in Birmingham, AL. I was born with an ultra rare genetic mutation of ppp2r1a which plays a big role in my life. I had my first seizure at 5 months old and have been diagnosed with epilepsy, hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, hypotonia and cortical visual impairment. Despite my health challenges, I’m a pretty happy and chill guy that loves to listen to music, play with my switch adapted toys, participate in the Epilepsy Foundation Kids Crew and go on walks with my family. I’m a warrior, and I never give up!
Malakai is 3 years old. He was born 6 weeks early and spent 12 days in the NICU. He has Spastic Quadriplegia Cerebral Palsy but that doesn’t stop him from doing amazing things! Malakai loves colouring, cars, dinosaurs and playing with his big sister. Living with a disability may make it more challenging for him to do things but that doesn’t stop him. He is the happiest and most determined little boy with the most infectious smile.