Posted August 12, 2021

Christy was born and raised in Thibodaux, Louisiana. She lived there until she was 18 years old. Most of Christy’s childhood was spent having surgery or traveling with her family. When she was 11 months old, Christy underwent open-heart surgery. She also had an ASD repair where the doctors put a coil in her heart when she was five. At 17 years old, Christy had scoliosis spinal fusion surgery. It wasn’t until she was 24 years old that Christy found out she had DiGeorge syndrome, 22q11.2 deletion, when she was diagnosed with VPI. Christy also has dyslexia.

Growing up, Christy struggled with English, math and reading comprehension. She credits her parents for helping her overcome these struggles by always being proactive and making sure she had the tools she needed to help her with her disabilities. Even though Christy’s parents didn’t know she had 22q, they addressed each challenge and provided her with whatever she needed to be successful. They hired a tutor, enrolled her in speech therapy and always made sure the school was a perfect fit for her with the accommodations she needed. As a result, Christy switched schools several times. She went to five different schools from pre-K to 12^th grade.

As a child, Christy enjoyed softball and gymnastics. Unfortunately, she was unable to continue with gymnastics when she started having back problems, which ultimately led to her back surgery.

After graduating from high school, Christy attended and graduated from Delta College in Covington, Louisiana, with a medical office assistant certificate. She worked two years at a nursing home as an activity assistant and has been employed the past two years as a receptionist at a veterinarian hospital.

Christy says the accomplishment she’s most proud of is being able to work as an adult while being treated fairly in the working field. Her goal for the future is to continue to be able to work throughout her life.

For people growing up and living with 22q, Christy advises, “Never underestimate yourself on what you are able to do just because you are diagnosed with a syndrome. You can accomplish anything you truly want to do with your life. It all starts with YOU!” She continues, “No matter what struggle we face, always remember those who are close to you are there for moral support. It may be hard for us to feel alone in our little world, but at the end of the day, KNOW that we are NOT alone.  I always say there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. “