Hometown: Jackson Center, OH
Age on Race Day: 15
Diagnosis: Type 1 Diabetes, Spastic Diplegia, Klippel-Feil Syndrome
At 18 months old, it became clear to Landon’s parents that he was not meeting the developmental milestones for his age. Landon was referred to the genetics department at Nationwide Children's Hospital where clinical geneticists diagnosed him with Klippel Feil syndrome. Landon’s diagnosis is a rare genetic disorder in which two or more vertebrae are fused together.
Since his diagnosis, Landon has had two surgeries to repair his spinal cord. In preparation for his second surgery, Landon’ had some fun with his surgeon, Dr. Jeffrey Leonard, chief of neurosurgery at Nationwide Children's, who provided him with a special haircut, a mohawk.
Landon has faced additional diagnoses that continue to bring him to Nationwide Children's. These include a form of cerebral palsy known as spastic diplegia and an intellectual disability. In September, Landon underwent a complicated procedure to reduce lower extremity spasticity due to cerebral palsy, called selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR). Post surgery, Landon had to regain the ability to walk but with the help of physical therapy, he’s getting stronger every day.
Landon was also recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
“We are so fortunate to have the best endocrinologic team at Nationwide Children's,” shares Stacey, Landon’s mom. “They taught us so much about diabetes and caring for our special guy.”
Although he faces many challenges, he takes it all in stride. Landon is a big Ohio State fan and loves any and all sports. He played on his school basketball team and is a decorated athlete for the Special Olympics, winning many medals for both the swimming and bowling teams. Whatever activity he is participating in, Landon’s favorite part is always making new friends.
