05/05/2026
Meet our sweet hero, Jemma ✨
Here are some special words shared from Jemma’s family: At just three weeks old, our world changed in an instant when she stopped breathing and turned blue. From that moment on, our lives became filled with hospital stays, surgeries, and countless sleepless nights, fearing for our little girl’s life.
At 15 months old, Jemma was diagnosed with a rare, one-in-a-million condition called Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood. This disease causes episodes of paralysis that can last anywhere from minutes to weeks or even months. It can affect any muscle in her body at any time, and each episode carries life-threatening risks.
There are several triggers—changes in temperature, excitement, emotional stress, illness, exhaustion, and even water—but often, these episodes happen without warning. Because of this, Jemma requires constant, around-the-clock care.
Her journey has not been easy. She relies on a central line for nutrition, as her body cannot get enough through her GI tract. She has experienced respiratory failure during full-body paralysis, developmental delays, and required an ostomy for support. Jemma also lives with epilepsy and cognitive impairment.
And yet, through it all, Jemma shines.☀️
On her good days, you’d see a joyful, energetic 4-year-old who loves running and playing with her brother, dancing, and singing. Her happiness is contagious, and her strength is inspiring.
Jemma faces every challenge with grace, resilience, and determination. She truly is one in a million—and we are so proud to call her our hero. 💛
