Steve Ward
Sponsor: Von Housen

District of Columbia
Jessica (Age 10)
Spina Bifida

Jessica of District Heights, Md., can be seen spontaneously breaking into a dance, even when there is no music playing. This bubbly and energetic girl had a rocky start to life, but you would never know it.

Before Jessica was born she was diagnosed with Spina Bifida, a neural tube defect in which the spinal cord does not develop properly. Doctors at Children’s National Medical Center explained to her parents that she would have difficulty walking and learning.

Today, thanks to numerous medical procedures and her determination, Jessica looks no different than any other 10-year-old girl and not only walks, she practices Kung Fu. Jessica began martial arts at just 3 years of age, the same year the braces on her ankles and feet were removed and she learned to walk. In fact, when Jessica was 4, her parents couldn’t get her to stop running. She’s never embarrassed to show off her Kung Fu skills, though she may be a little intimidated when her brothers are around.

Although Spina Bifida is a lifelong condition, Jessica’s bright and optimistic view of life will always allow her to handle anything that comes her way.