cerebral palsy

In her first three years, Gracie went from 2 lbs. 10 oz to a charming and determined little girl. She has been poked, prodded, on oxygen, undergone surgery and MRI’s, using adaptive equipment, and needing to go to appointment after appointment. Cerebral Palsy makes it hard for her to play with her twin brother and sister, but it will not keep her down! She keeps going, keeps smiling, dancing and singing. Her mom has no idea how she does it. Gracie is extremely smart, funny, strong, and determined without hesitation. Gracie’s Dream is to go to the Florida theme parks with her family.

Joseph loves to play with and build Legos. He likes to watch Mickey Mouse and YouTube videos. Joseph is very social. He loves school and loves to interact with his schoolmates. He loves the outdoors. Joseph has cerebral palsy, which limits his mobility and requires use of a wheelchair. We selected the Dream of Disney because Joseph has always loved Mickey Mouse and everything Disney. Thank you for supporting Joseph’s Dream!

Tarique was born with cerebral palsy. His mom noticed as soon as he was born that there was something not quite right. He was having seizures, he had strabismus in both eyes, and it was hard for him to nurse or take a bottle. The doctors said he was OK and sent him and his parents’ home. Tarique continued to have small mal seizures. He would stop breathing and would vomit formula from his nose and mouth. After going back and forth to the doctor’s, his parents received a diagnosis when he was two years old. The family moved to Indianapolis for better care. Since moving, Tarique’s condition got worse. He now has scoliosis, hip dislocation, and spasticity in his legs. Tarique, together with his family, has been in and out of the hospital since he was born, causing his mom to have to stop working and take care of him full time. The family has limited resources and is not able to just go out and have fun. While Tarique is non-verbal, he expresses himself by his facial expressions. Tarique really loves to play in water. He often brings joy to the people he encounters through his contagious smile and laugh. Tarique’s Dream is for a shopping spree to buy the clothes and shoes he needs. Visit Tarique’s Instagram’s page: https://www.instagram.com/riqueajriley/

Nicholas lives with Cerebral Palsy. Nicholas is a bright, kind, and energetic boy. He was gifted with a great personality and brings joy to anyone that spends time with him. Movies and football are his passions!! His Dream is to one day be able to visit Los Angeles and Hollywood.

Tyrese has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Playing basketball is one of Tyrese’s favorite things to do. He plays basketball at home on a small court with his dad. Tyrese is hoping to be a basketball player when he grows up. Tyrese and his family feel that although his diagnosis affects his walking, it never stops him from playing, trying every day to get stronger, or having Dreams. Tyrese’s Dream is to go to the Florida theme parks. He chose this Dream because he feels it gives him a chance to enjoy himself, have fun just being a kid, and show that with his abilities, he can still get around rather than having people look at him for his disability. Tyrese also says that having this Dream Come True gives him hope that one day, his dream of walking and becoming a basketball player will come true as well.

Lanie was born with a rare genetic disorder known as DDX3X. This genetic disorder affects her in many ways. She is nonverbal and is unable to walk independently. She has feeding difficulties, which led to surgeries and a feeding tube. Although this disorder has brought many obstacles in Lanie’s life, it never took away her beautiful smile. Lanie loves music, swimming, and lights. She is always happy and has a contagious giggle. Her Dream request is a week long trip with her family to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, and the Sunshine Dream Village!

“Bella” is 11 years old. When she was 8 months, she got sick with ADEM which led her to have a stroke and later to be diagnosed with cerebral palsy and a cortical vision impairment. Bella is a lively, strong-willed, magnetic little girl who brings love and laughter to all who meet her. Her ultimate dream is to walk one day but going to Disney World is right up there! She loves Elsa and Anna and would be excited to meet any of the Disney Princesses. Her favorite things are listening to her audio books, singing, and playing with her friends. She would be ecstatic at the chance of going to Disney World! NOTE: Students of Salve Regina University are currently raising funds to help Sienna realize her Dream. You can still make individual gifts to make her Dream come true.

Isaac is a loving child who is diagnosed with cerebral palsy. He loves Mickey Mouse and is looking forward to visiting the Florida Theme Parks to meet him!