Our daughter Aria was born with arthrogryposis, a rare condition that affects her bones and joints. Because of this, everyday movements that many children take for granted — eating independently, using her arms and legs, and playing — are much harder for her.

Last summer we learned that Aria needs two major surgeries this summer, and most likely two more next summer. Her doctors believe these surgeries will greatly improve her quality of life, mobility, and independence. Recovery will be long — anywhere from 3 months to a year — and during that time she will need frequent physical and occupational therapy as she relearns how to eat and use her arms and legs.

Our original plan was for Aria to stay with my parents during recovery, but with the level of therapy she needs, that’s no longer possible. After a lot of thought, tears, and conversations, we have made the difficult decision to move permanently to South Carolina. The medical care available to her there is more specialized than what is currently available in Maine, and there are more inclusive opportunities for children with disabilities.

One of Aria’s biggest wishes is to do gymnastics. In South Carolina there is an all-inclusive special-needs gymnastics team, and for the first time she lit up and said, “I wish I could do that.” We want to give her the best chance to heal, grow, and actually live those dreams.

We are asking for help to cover moving expenses, travel for medical appointments, and costs related to her surgeries and ongoing therapy. Any donation, share, or message of support means more than we can express.

Thank you for loving Aria alongside us, believing in her strength, and helping us give her the future she deserves.