Child with Tibial Hemimelia Receives Life-Changing Care
Born with Tibial Hemimelia
Keilannie lives in Barbados. The island is known for tropical beauty. However, she can't run on the sand, dance around a beach bonfire, or swim in the crystal-blue waters. She was born with an extremely rare condition called tibial hemimelia.
Tibial hemimelia means that Keilannie is missing crucial bones in her lower leg and foot. This leads to one leg being significantly shorter than the other, and all the mobility challenges that come with it.
From Falling Behind...
Keilannie needed surgery to lengthen the leg that was affected by tibial hemimelia. However, this was a highly specialized operation. Doctors in Barbados weren't able to perform it. The renowned Shriners Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri would be able to best help her.
There was just one problem. The hospital was almost 2,600 miles away from Keilannie's home. Her parents couldn't afford the cost of a round-trip flight. How would she get there - and live a better life?
...To Flying Ahead
In a desperate moment, Keilannie's parents contacted the World Pediatric Project. From there, they were referred to Mercy Medical Angels. And that was the beginning of Keilannie's better life.
Through a partnership with American Airlines' charitable arm, Miles for Our Well-Being, Mercy Medical Angels arranged charitable flights for Keilannie and her parents. Now she was able to access the care she needed at Shriners Hospital.
"There were no delays or problems," said Keilannie's parents. "Our flight was great."
"All of the Trip Went Well..."
Keilannie's quality of life has increased drastically since receiving the specialized surgery. She can keep up with her friends when they play, and she can participate in activities that she previously couldn't do. Her physical and mental wellness have improved overall.
When asked how Mercy Medical Angels and American Airlines changed Keilannie's life, her parents answer with an abundance of gratitude. "All of the trip went well," they said. "We couldn't have done this without Mercy Medical Angels and American Airlines."
"Thank you!"
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