Miles

Today, Miles is a fourth grader who loves school. He is a voracious reader, devouring new books in record time. He also loves math and problem solving. Miles is always up for a challenge and loves overcoming odds. His hobbies are chess, where he gets to strategize and compete with his mind, and of course gaming, like any typical boy his age. He also plays on an all-abilities baseball team, and he loves seeing how far he can hit. He’s a shrewd negotiator that will talk you into most things. He uses those negotiation skills to outfox his parents daily. Miles is very social and has a big brother and many friends that support him, uplift him, and cheer him on.

As Miles gets older, he continues to surprise and impress. Whether it be surgery, specialist appointments, or procedures, Miles takes on all that comes his way with bravery and positivity. Though he has to do many things differently, he uses his mind and his creativity to problem-solve and figure out his own approach. Miles is paving his own way with determination in his eyes and hope in his heart!

~Nikki, Miles’ Mom

Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) refers to a group of inherited conditions that affect the muscles. The severity of the condition, associated signs and symptoms, and the age at which symptoms develop varies by subtype. In general, people with SMA experience progressive weakness and atrophy of muscles involved in mobility, the ability to sit unassisted, and head control. Breathing and swallowing may also be affected in severe cases. SMA is generally caused by changes in the SMN1 gene and is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner.

Artist: Jota Leal