Meet Jeziel!

 

 

Jeziel is a remarkable 16-year-old whose strength and spirit inspire everyone around him. Described as special, unique, and truly wonderful, Jeziel is a survivor with a rare NGLY1 genetic disorder, and he continues to defy expectations every day. His favorite color is red, and he loves anything related to superheroes—especially the Avengers. He also enjoys watching basketball and cheering for his hero, LeBron James.

Jeziel finds joy in simple, everyday adventures like going shopping at Walmart and Target, spending time outside, and listening to his favorite singers, Promise and Maverik. French fries and chicken nuggets are his go-to favorites, and while school isn’t his favorite place, Jeziel’s curiosity and determination shine through in the activities he loves most.

After a spinal fusion procedure, Jeziel is only able to take a few steps with a walker and becomes fatigued quickly. His physical therapist has seen how much he enjoys and benefits from riding a therapy tricycle, which allows him to exercise longer, build strength, and explore his environment more independently. A therapy trike for home use would give Jeziel the opportunity to continue improving his mobility, endurance, and independence while doing something he truly loves.