Our Featured Champion

In the words of her idol, Taylor Swift, Marlee knows how to “shake it off.” Marlee was born missing nine of 12 ribs on her right side, causing severe scoliosis and an abnormally small right lung, leaving her unable to breathe on her own. At 10 days old, she had her first of 22 surgeries (so far). In total, Marlee spent six months in the hospital before being dis- charged.

Marlee has surgery every four to six months to adjust her Vertical Expandable Prosthetic Titanium Ribs, which helps stabilize Marlee’s spine and separate her ribs, allowing her lungs to expand as she grows.

Marlee’s prognosis is good, and she will continue to have surgeries and follow-up visits for the rest of her life. She “shakes off” any physical restrictions and enjoys climbing on monkey bars, attending gymnastics classes and jumping on the trampoline.