Shortly before his birth, five year old Will was diagnosed with a very rare syndrome affecting all four of his limbs. The condition affects his hands and feet causing him to be a quad congenital amputee. Will began occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy when just four months old, and got his first set of prosthetics at the age of ten months. Soon after, he began running and his mother Katie says he hasn’t stopped yet. When the family moved to Tyler, Will became a patient of the Trinity Pediatrics Special Needs Clinic, a program made possible by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Dr. Rick Rogers, Chief of Pediatrics for Trinity Mother Frances Hospitals and Clinics, is the Butts’ family pediatrician. Despite his physical challenges, Will “really doesn’t have any limits,” his mother says. The energetic youngster plays soccer, attends pre-school, takes kung fu and loves to swim.

Three years younger than her brother, Eleanor Grace was born with arthrogryposis, a condition that limits the range of motion in her limb joints and causes dislocated shoulders. At just six days old, she began physical therapy, which continues with multiple sessions weekly. Ellie has undergone several surgeries and faces possible future procedures on her hands and feet. The family’s hope is that Ellie someday will be able to walk unassisted.

The Butts family relies on their deep faith when facing the medical challenges with Will and Ellie. They also put their faith in Dr. Rick Rogers, a long-time family friend. According to Dr. Rogers, “Having limb differences has never slowed Will down. He is an amazing kid with a wonderfully contagious laugh and smile. He knows no limits in his life. Ellie Grace is a true miracle in every sense of the word and has overcome great obstacles in her short life. The Special Needs Clinic is now their medical home, and I’m so privileged to provide their care right here close to home so that their family can enjoy life to its fullest.”

Will and Ellie are an amazing example of courage and determination. Thanks to your support of the Children's Miracle, you may make a donation to continue support by calling 903.531.5437 or toll free 800.692.5437. One hundred percent of the funds raised for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals locally stays right here at Trinity Mother Frances to provide life-saving pediatric equipment and medical services to children in our area.

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