Annabelle, 1 1/2 years old www.caringbridge.org/visit/belle
 
Diagnosed with severe Morquio Syndrome at 6 months, Annabelle is a happy, smart little girl. She sees an orthopedic surgeon and geneticist every 6 months and gets a MRI every year to check the stability of her neck. Annabelle is already showing signs of a narrowing cervical spine which could become life threatening at any time. Her ribs are flaring and her hips are becoming less stable as she grows. Based on her specific mutation of Morquio syndrome, she will probably exhibit all the symptoms of Morquio which will shorten her life span and mean a life full of surgeries, pain, and challenges. We hope to keep our princess smiling as long as we can. 
      
 

Ariana, 2 years old www.arianascure.com

Ariana is a beautiful piece of sunshine to her family! She is a very bright and talkative two year old who loves Cinderella, Barney, and Teletebbies. She has an extremely warm personality and charms the socks off of just about everyone she meets. Ariana was diagnosed at 17months with Morquio, although symptoms were noticed at about six months of age. She recently underwent cervical spinal fusion on October 2nd and she will need to wear a halo for up to six months. 
     

Isabella, 3 years old www.caringbridge.com/visit/bella04
 
Isabella was diagnosed with Morquio Syndrome when she was 2 years old and within 6 months had her first Morquio surgery to protect her spinal cord from damage. Isabella's cervical spine had narrowed and was putting pressure on her spinal cord nerves. This is a very common complication among children with Morquio. She is now in a halo, which she refers to her as her "princess crown". This is most likely the first of many, many surgeries. 
 

Eddie K, 3 1/2 years old www.caringbridge.com/visit/eddiek

Eddie was diagnosed with Morquio Syndrome when he was 2 1/2 years old. His first symptoms were noticed by his pediatrician because his spine had a curve and his chest was developing irregularly. Eddie recently had his cervical fusion and hopes to have his halo removed soon. Eddie was a real trooper through the whole painful process. Eddie deals with chronic pain in his knees and has trouble holding a pencil from the damage of Morquio syndrome to his bones. 
     

Annie, 5 years old, & Mandy, 4 years old (sisters!)  
Annie and Mandy were both diagnosed with Morquio. Annie was diagnosed when she was 2 years old and had a cervical fusion and halo to protect her spinal cord. Annie just started Kindergarten and loves to color and play dress up. Their parents pray and hope each day that they will continue to be happy little girls. 
 

Carol Ann, 17 years old
Carol Ann was diagnosed with Morquio Syndrome when she was 2 years old. She has endured several surgeries to stabilize her bones. Carol Ann has not only been a wonderful kid but also been a huge part of funding for research. Carol Ann's parents started the International Morquio Organization (aka Carol Ann Foundation) to help with research funding. You can see more about her family and the International Morquio Organization at www.morquio.com. 
     

Sarah, 10 years oldwww.caringbridge.org/visit/sarahvanorden
 
Sarah just got her new "wheels"! Sarah started the 5th grade this year. Sarah has already had a few surgeries to help keep her on her feet however the time came that she needed a fully loaded wheelchair to keep her going in school. Sarah is an inspiration to her family and friends. Through everything, she has a very happy bright spirit. 
     

Pablo (10), Carly (11), Georgia (10), Sarah(9), Maria (15), & Annabelle (9mo) held by Dr Tomatsu These children are diagnosed with Morquio Syndrome. Children with Morquio Syndrome are usually diagnosed around the age of 3 when it is noted that their growth has significantly slowed and/or noted abnormal bone growth. Morquio is a progressive degenerative disease arresting growth and causes severe bone and organ damage. Most children with Morquio eventually rely on wheelchairs to maintain quality of life. Children with Morquio syndrome require extensive medical care and multiple surgeries. They endure chronic pain and physical challenges that progressively become worse with age.