Hope was born with multiple pterygium syndrome. Hallmarks of multiple pterygium syndrome include scoliosis, short stature, joint contractures and webbing of the skin around the joints. Metal rods in Hope’s spine, which are adjusted as she grows, keep her scoliosis from worsening. So far, she’s had five surgeries to adjust the rods. Hope’s defining characteristics include a love for animals—she wants to become a veterinarian someday, and own a Pug—and an inclination to stick up for other kids. Hope loves animals and wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up! She is very into anything that moves and prides herself on helping bugs or identifying and labeling them. Hope is very artistic and enjoys illustrating her own comic books!