Spina Bifida

Benjamin was born with spina bifida. On a daily basis, he faces a variety of medical, psychological, and cognitive challenges. Benjamin never ceases to amaze others with what he is able to overcome. He loves the outdoors, swimming, video games, and drawing/coloring. When he is able, he likes to give back to others and is always a friend to those who need one. Benjamin has wanted to go to Disney for years, and he deserves to have his wish come true and so much more. Benjamin says: “My family is very important to me and spending time with them. Going to Disney is a dream vacation and a magical place to spend time with my family. I want to make lasting memories and just have a blast with them!” Benjamin is especially looking forward to seeing his favorite characters, Spider-Man and Goofy.

Xzavier is an outgoing ten year old boy. He has overcome so much with his spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Xzavier loves to play basketball and baseball. He collects stuffed animal monkeys and enjoys learning anything about the U.S. presidents and the wars. He ALWAYS has a smile on his face and is always trying to make everyone else happy. Xzavier’s Dream is to go the the Florida Theme Parks with his family.

Kaislee’s Dream is to go to Disney! She chose this because she wants to have fun with her Mommy, Daddy, and big sister, Adrianna. Kaislee is most excited to see the Disney princesses! She would love to dress up and have tea with them. Her favorite princesses are Cinderella and Belle. Kaislee has spina bifida. Her birthday is April 16, 2015. When Kaislee was born, she had spinal cord surgery because her spine was exposed. Due to the exposure, she has nerve damage. She also has hip dysplasia, clubbed feet, hydrocephalus, and Arnold Chiari. Kaislee had 3 major hip surgeries. She was in a spica cast for a duration of 3 months for each surgery. Kaislee’s feet have been casted multiple times. So far, the casts have only been a temporary fix for her clubbed feet. She will need a muscle/tendon transfer surgery to permanently correct the position of her feet. Kaislee receives physical therapy once per week. She uses a walker to get around for short distances. For long distances, she needs to be in a stroller/wheelchair. She also wears AFOs on her feet. Kaislee enjoys playing with her sister, cousins, and friends. She loves to color and read stories with her big sister. Kaislee has such a loving, funny, and outgoing personality! Despite all of the surgeries, procedures, therapies, and castings; Kaislee has remained positive through it all! When she walks into a room, she puts a smile on everyone’s face! She is determined to be as independent as possible. Kaislee does not let spina bifida define her. In her own words, she is “Super Fabulous”! Kaislee says that when she grows up she wants to be a doctor, just like her favorite orthopedic surgeon!