Elianna is a sweet and deeply caring 13-year-old girl. She has a bubbly personality and loves to make people laugh and smile. She is extremely engaged. Whether it’s live music, going on an adventure, or watching her favorite TV shows with her family, Elianna loves to be a part of the action.

When Elianna was 3 years old, she was diagnosed with Rett syndrome. Rett syndrome is a complex neurological disorder that affects mostly females and involves the X chromosome.

This chromosomal disorder causes problems in brain functions that are responsible for things such as moving, walking, speaking, eating, feeling, and even breathing.

Elianna is nonverbal, but she uses an eye-gazing computer to speak to others. She requires a wheelchair as she cannot walk independently. She has no functional use of her hands, has a very specialized diet, and is epileptic (seizures).

Currently, Elianna requires a feeding tube as she is unable to eat on her own. Elianna also takes daily medications for her seizure disorder.

Elianna has endured many health challenges and will continue to her entire life. However, she and her family never let her condition stop her from enjoying life, living in the moment, and really connecting with people. Elianna is an example of what it means to focus on what really matters in life and find joy.

Elianna will be adopted as the Sparrow to Crater High School. Crater students will work hard to earn money for Elianna through sponsored community service.