Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month: Rhy’lee’s Story - Nemours Blog

PATIENT STORIES

Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month: Rhy’lee’s Story

2 min read
Guest Contributor

When Latoya welcomed her daughter, Rhy’lee, into the world, she had no idea how much resilience her little girl would have. Diagnosed at birth with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), Rhy’lee spent her first 45 days in the hospital, relying on medical equipment to survive. Over time, her challenges became clearer—cerebral palsy, lung issues, and a need for a G-tube.

For years, Rhy’lee faced constant hospital stays, battling lung complications that made life uncomfortable for both her and her family. “She was in and out of the hospital back-to-back,” Latoya recalls. “She was so uncomfortable.”

It wasn’t until Rhy’lee was 5 that her parents, Latoya and Devon, were introduced to Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida. A medical complex in downtown Orlando connected her with Dr. Aga Lewelt, and soon, Dr. Jason Malone and Dr. Alec Stall joined Rhy’lee’s care team. From that moment, everything changed.

At Nemours, Rhy’lee’s family found more than expert medical care—they found a team that treated them as family of their own. “They are warm and welcoming,” says Latoya. “They treat you as if you’re family and go above and beyond for their patients.” With dedicated specialists guiding their daughter’s care, Rhy’lee’s family finally felt a sense of relief.

In addition to managing her complex medical needs, Rhy’lee underwent spine surgery at Nemours Children’s, a crucial step in improving her comfort and mobility. With the support of her dedicated care team, she recovered with strength and determination.

Now 10 years old, Rhy’lee is able to enjoy life more, and her family is looking toward the future with hope. “Words can’t describe how thankful I am,” says Latoya. While each day presents new challenges, they embrace them one at a time, knowing Rhy’lee has the right team by her side.

For other parents navigating a similar journey, Latoya offers this simple but powerful advice: “It gets better. Some days are going to be good, and some days will be overwhelming. Just hang in there.” With the support of Nemours Children’s, Rhy’lee continues to move forward—one day, one victory, and one moment of joy at a time.

Guest Contributor
Topics: Featured Post Orthopedics Patient Stories
Guest Contributor

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