Meet Our Warriors

Haylei is a vibrant young lady who just celebrated her Sweet 16th birthday. Her infectious smile can brighten any room when she walks in and every person's day that she meets. 

Although Haylei was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome at 13 months, she has fought and battled her way through therapy, hospital visits and school. Because of her determination, she has made many gains including the ability to walk. Haylei is active in her schedule like any other teenager these days. School, therapy, baseball, swimming, dances, Andrea Bocelli concerts, and has participated in numerous 5k’s. Limitations are not what define her, she is a Warrior!

Haylei’s strong work ethic and determination have propelled her gains. Because of this, she has appeared in articles and brochures and was featured in The Healthy Life magazine both in an article titled "A Mighty Spirit" and a photo on the magazine's cover.

It is truly an honor to have met Haylei and her mother Kate back in 2021. They have become not only part of our Precious Warriors Foundation family, but close friends in mine and Karen's lives. 

The Precious Warriors Foundation has had the privilege of providing multiple pairs of Billy shoes for Haylei over the past few years. The Billy shoes work well with her braces allowing an easier experience when her mom helps her get ready for the day. Check out the photo section below to see the shoes Haylei personally picked out for her wardrobe. 

Rett Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of the brain in girls. It typically begins to show symptoms between 6-18 months of age and causes a range of symptoms including loss of speech and hand movements, problems with coordination and mobility, seizures, and intellectual limitations. Children with Rett Syndrome require ongoing support and care, as the symptoms have a significant impact on their daily lives.

Tessa is an energetic seven year old princess, her favorite colors are pink and purple. She loves to giggle, laugh and play, but when it comes to her physical therapy she is an absolute Warrior! Tessa has undergone multiple surgeries to combat her Arthrogryposis and constantly pushes herself to increase her abilities and to strengthen herself. 

We met Tessa and her mom Sheri, after a friend of ours sent us an article about her equipment being destroyed in a tragic accident. 

 https://turnto10.com/news/local/cumberland-girl-in-need-of-equipment-after-crash 

When we reached out to Sheri about how we could help, she inquired about a replacement gait trainer that Tessa really needed for her physical therapy but was damaged in the accident.  After our conversation, we exchanged information as to the exact equipment and options she needed. 

The Precious Warriors Foundation was able to provide Tessa with a brand new Gait Trainer. Because the only color choices were black and orange, we reached out to our friends at Providence Auto Body, who custom painted it for her as a gift. The joy we got to experience when Tessa saw her name and a princess crown painted into the finish was amazing. It is such a blessing to have Tessa as part of our Precious Warriors family. Being able to see the pictures and video clips Sheri posts of Tessa using her equipment and the progress she is making is amazing!

Arthrogryposis (also known as arthrogryposis multiplex congenita or AMC) is a rare condition characterized by multiple joint contractures, stiffness, and limited movement in various parts of the body, most commonly in the arms and legs. The joints are stiff and may be stuck in one position, making movement difficult or impossible.

The condition is present at birth and is believed to be caused by a disruption in fetal movement or development of the muscles, bones, and joints. The severity of arthrogryposis can vary greatly, and some individuals may have mild joint contractures while others may have more severe limitations in movement and function.

Arthrogryposis is a lifelong condition, but with proper management, many individuals with the condition can live productive and fulfilling lives. Treatment may include physical therapy, splinting or bracing, surgery, and assistive devices such as wheelchairs or orthotics.