Kaitlin Kay Schoenbeck
Kaitlin Kay Schoenbeck is a strong 6-year-old! Although she has Distal Spinal Muscular Atrophy that affects her lower extremities and her vocal cords, Kaitlin is stronger now than she has ever been!
Kaitlin did not have an easy start to life. She has had several surgeries and was born with bilateral club feet and knee contractures. Her breathing has always been an issue but at 3 ½ months old it was discovered she has bilateral vocal paralysis related to her type of SMA. She was hospitalized several times and got many infections related to her trach.
In October of 2016, Kaitlin underwent an 8 1/2 hour surgery on her airway that has allowed her to be trach free for the last 3 years! Although she has more surgeries ahead, Kaitlin loves being able to talk and tell you everything she wants to say! She enjoys fishing, swimming, and is learning to play the piano. Kaitlin is a very competitive little girl, and recently found a passion for triathlons. She can really do anything, and nothing will get in her way!