Charlotte N.
Hometown: Malinra, OH
Diagnosis: Trisomy 18
Age on Race Day: 6
Before Charlotte was born, doctors diagnosed her with trisomy 18, a genetic disease that causes developmental delays, low birth weight, and organ defects that can be life threatening. Charlotte’s parents were told that it was unlikely they would be able to bring their daughter home.
Armed with this information, Charlotte’s parents welcomed her at their small, local hospital outside of Toledo, knowing they wanted to spend as much time with her as possible. Charlotte, however, had other plans.
“She was a fighter from the beginning,” recalls Hailey, Charlotte’s mom. “After three days in the hospital, we were astounded we would be taking our baby home.”
It became clear that Charlotte was doing well despite her diagnosis and would benefit from seeing specialists.
Charlotte’s parents brought her to Nationwide Children's Hospital – Toledo to meet with doctors across many different departments including doctors from cardiology, pulmonology, gastroenterology, nephrology, genetics, and more.
“Throughout Charlotte’s journey, all of these specialists have stuck with her and continue to provide outstanding care to help her thrive,” Hailey shares. “We attribute the gains she has made to her many specialists at Nationwide Children’s.”
Now 6 years old, Charlotte loves going to school, seeing her physicians, and attending sporting events.
“She is growing and thriving in every way possible,” says Hailey. “Without her doctors’ care, knowledge and understanding, Charlotte’s journey may have looked very different.”
