Black and white photo of toddler female smiling outside in a furry vest and skirt

Zoey W, age 2

Photograph by Erin Kull (2024)

Zoey is the boss of the house and runs the show, but she is also a sweet, loving child who will warm your heart. She is the firecracker of her family and the one who strengthens their bonds to each other.
Born prematurely, Zoey spent time in neonatal intensive care. Later, a diagnosis of torticollis—a condition which causes the muscles in the neck to contract—made feeding a challenge. Zoey’s mom, Tye, says her daughter has been a fighter who beat the odds from her first breath. She continues to demonstrate this same spirit as she faces her ongoing therapies. After months of speech therapy, she is using more words and improving her communication skills!
One of Zoey’s favorite activities is watching cooking videos and acting them out in her play kitchen. She also loves watching the creative antics of Bluey and playing with her two brothers.
Zoey’s family say they have chosen to have Zoey participate in LOOK! so other parents of premature babies will know they are not alone.

Family Connection of South Carolina provides services and resources to families who have a child with a disability or specialized healthcare need. Since 1990 we have served more than 100,000 families and today our services are needed more than ever. We focus on parent-to-parent support, guidance with navigating the complex healthcare system, and assistance with school meetings and special education plans.