Elizabeth Rojas, a 6-year-old girl, has been diagnosed with Trisomy 18, Spastic Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy, developmental delays, seizures, sleep apnea, mild persistent asthma, and a history of bilateral femoral derotational osteotomy. Her mother learned of her condition when she was four months pregnant. Despite the doctor’s initial recommendation to terminate the pregnancy due to risks to both Elizabeth’s and her mother’s health, Elizabeth’s mother chose to continue. She was advised that Elizabeth might not survive long after birth, but defied expectations.
Elizabeth was born and spent two days without medical intervention, but then she was readmitted to the hospital. After receiving necessary treatments at Westchester Hospital for two and a half months, Elizabeth underwent multiple surgeries, including two heart surgeries, ear surgeries, adenoid removal, kidney reconstruction, and hip surgeries. Despite these challenges, her mother continues to provide daily care, administering medications, treatments for seizures and respiratory issues, and therapies to support her development.
A typical day for Elizabeth includes medication and physical care routines, school with a nurse, therapy sessions, and rest, often with additional medical treatments like breathing treatments or hospital visits when needed. Her family continues to support her through her complex medical needs.
