Grace was born prematurely at 33 weeks. She was a warrior from the start, defying the odds from day one. Grace is the youngest of three children. She lives with her parents, Juston and Amanda, and her older siblings, Hannah, 11, and Kaleb, 16.
In September 2020, after missing key milestones such as crawling, sitting up and walking, Grace was referred to a neurologist. In December of the same year, at the age of 19 months, she was diagnosed with bilateral spastic diplegia cerebral palsy.
After months of working with local specialists, Grace’s family visited Shriners Children’s New England. They met an amazing team of doctors that advised the best course of treatment to help her thrive.
In the short time Grace has been treated at Shriners Children’s New England, she has made significant progress. Her family watched her stand unassisted for the first time ever. Grace has also learned to walk with a walker and crutches independently. In June 2022, she performed in her very first dance recital. Last year, she attended her first Shrine Maple Sugar Bowl as the Vermont Ambassador.
Shriners Children’s New England has helped Grace achieve the independence she loves and the ability to play with her friends in all different environments. Since her hip surgery in January 2024, Grace has been making strides and is regaining her independence. Her family feels confident sending her to kindergarten in the fall without any fear of her hip dislocating.
Grace’s family is grateful to Shriners Children’s New England for helping give her the confidence and strength she needs to continue to be successful and strong. They are proud to be representing Shriner’s Children’s New England again this year at the Shrine Maple Sugar Bowl!
