​We are incredibly fortunate that Elijah has a medical team, school, family, church, friends, and community who love him, support him, and make sure he has what he needs to thrive. We never take that for granted.

A mission trip to Honduras a few years ago opened our eyes to how dramatically where a child is born can shape the resources available to that child and their family. Our family's experience with spina bifida has made me even more aware that access to care is simply not equal around the world.

In many communities, families face significant barriers to specialized surgery, rehabilitation, medical equipment and supplies, education, and lifelong care. Some children also face stigma and exclusion simply because they have a disability.

That is why awareness matters.

These shirts are about more than wearing yellow during October.  They are about starting conversations. They are about increasing understanding of spina bifida, advocating for better access to care, celebrating the incredible kids and adults living with it, and teaching the next generation that differences should never determine someone's worth or whether they belong.

We are incredibly grateful for everything Elijah has been given and we want to use that gratitude to advocate for those who haven't been given the same opportunities.

Because every person with spina bifida deserves access to care, dignity, opportunity, and belonging.