When Kathryn, now age 13, was 7 years old, she had the flu.  The virus caused an inflammation of her heart muscle (myocarditis).  During treatment at a local hospital, her heart stopped.  Although the medical team resuscitated her,  Kathryn had a spinal cord stroke that paralyzed her from the waist down. 

Physicians placed the little girl at the top of the heart-transplant list.  “Without a transplant, doctors said she a slim chance of survival,” says Penny, Kathryn’s mother. After two weeks, however, Kathryn showed improvement.

A Surprising Turnaround
When Kathryn’s heart began functioning, doctors took her off the heart-bypass equipment.  She no longer needed a transplant.

Once she was stable, Kathryn was admitted to the Center for Pediatric Rehabilitation at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare.  While in rehabilitation, Kathryn learned to groom, dress, and otherwise care for herself.  She also learned to use a wheelchair.  The family’s goal was to help Kathryn be as independent as possible.  Subsequently, she has had spinal fusion and orthopaedic surgeries at Gillette.

Life Lessons
Kathryn recently completed a paper for history class about seven significant stages in her life.  She wrote:

“When I was 7 1/2, I was sick.  That experience taught me things no one will ever understand.  I was supposed to be in my first dance recital in May of 2002.  We had already ordered my costumes.  It was hard to realize that I wouldn't be able to dance in the competitions.  Fortunately, my dance teacher arranged for me to be part of the recital and dance with my team.  I also realized that I wouldn't be able to skate board, snowboard, roller blade, play hockey and run and play with my friends.”
 
Over the years, Kathryn has made a remarkable adjustment.  “She’s a dynamic young woman, who has adapted well to using a wheelchair,” says Penny.  Today, she plays softball, takes part in adapted downhill and waterski programs, and she dances competitively.  “Dance remains her real passion,” Penny says.  “She especially loves hip hop.”

Listen to Kathryn's Story Here

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