Kaitlyn
2017 EMBRACING BRAVE 5K Denver Recipient
To most people Kaitlyn looks like an ordinary 12 year old girl, however, she has been through more than most adults have in their lifetime. Her journey began during a routine ultrasound in which her femurs were measuring short. Her family was then referred to a perinatologist where it was found that Kaitlyn had an in utero right femur fracture, then sustained approximately 12 more during the birthing process. Genetic testing revealed that Kaitlyn was born with a rare genetic disorder called Hypophosphatasia or HPP (a chronic, potentially life-threatening metabolic disease characterized by defective bone mineralization that leads to destruction and deformity of bones, profound muscle weakness, seizures, renal failure and respiratory failure) as well as a Type I Collagen Disorder that lies somewhere between Osteogenesis Imperfecta (a genetic disorder characterized by fragile bones that break easily) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (loose joints and sensitive skin).
As a result of HPP and her other disorders, Kaitlyn has had two skull surgeries, knee surgery, multiple broken bones, dislocations, and is currently struggling with Chronic Kidney Disease. She has also recently been diagnosed with Hemiplegic Migraines (a rare type of migraine with aura that occurs with motor weakness during the aura. Signs and symptoms vary but may include visual disturbances, sensory loss, difficulty with speech, weakness on one side of the body, confusion, and impaired consciousness).
Her family will use the proceeds to provide a specific diet that will maintain her kidney health and help prevent further kidney damage. They will also use it to repair and maintain their vehicle as it is extremely important in being able to get her to and from all of her appointments and accommodate her wheelchair. -2017