young woman looks over a flower

Alexia H, age 15

Photograph by Amy Keely (2025)

From the moment Alexia entered the world, she defied expectations with a will to live and thrive. She has always demonstrated a bubbly spirit, fierce determination, and a heart full of joy. Whether she is dancing to K-pop, making people laugh, or pushing herself to try new things, Alexia embraces life with enthusiasm and resilience.

Alexia was born with complex diagnoses including Mosaic Trisomy 22 and Dandy-Walker malformation. Later she was also diagnosed with autism. Doctors were not sure what her future would hold, but Alexia was determined to write her own story. She has thrived in ways no one could have predicted, surpassing expectations and showing the world what is possible.

A year ago, Alexia underwent emergency surgery in Columbia, traveling alone to the hospital ahead of her mother. She impressed the medical team with her ability to advocate for herself and confidently discuss her condition. Her passion for learning and standing up for others continues to grow—she dreams of using her voice to raise awareness and ensure that all people are seen and heard.

Alexia can be shy and sometimes feels judged for being overcautious or a bookworm, and medical issues often arise unexpectedly. However, nothing stops her from pushing forward. Recently, she took on playing basketball with Special Olympics—proving once again that she never backs down from something new.

Her journey has not always been easy, but her ability to find the silver lining in every situation is what inspires those around her. During hospital stays as a child, she made the medical staff laugh, keeping spirits high even on her toughest days. Her mother now sees Alexia as their greatest gift—someone who has transformed their family for the better.

Alexia continues to thrive, showing the world what is possible for individuals with Mosaic Trisomy 22 and other conditions. She hopes to advocate for others, increase awareness, and make a difference—because, as she says, “Kids like me are popping up all over the world, and we are thriving!”

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.