Jilly is an affectionate 11-year-old who loves all things technology and has a fabulous sense of humor.
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nWhen Jillian was born, she had difficulty sucking or swallowing. At just three weeks old doctors placed a G-tube in her stomach to allow her to receive the nutrients she needed to live.
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nAs she began to grow, she did not have the physical ability to sit, stand or walk on her own. Doctors discovered she had many movement disorders including dyskinesia, dystonia, and hypertonia. Her parents were told her condition was much like cerebral palsy.
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nJillian’s hearing and vision had always been perfect until she experienced a non-cancerous mass in her inner ear which caused some hearing loss.
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nShe has endured major abdominal surgeries and more procedures than most of us will ever know. Jillian was recently diagnosed with autism.
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nJilly must be in a wheelchair and uses an eye-gaze system to communicate. She loves unconditionally but expresses emotions differently.
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nDespite all the hurdles Jillian has faced, she works hard in all types of therapy to become stronger and overcome all obstacles.
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nJilly will be adopted as a Sparrow to Sherwood High School. Students will work hard to raise money for Jilly through sponsored community service.