Meet 14-year-old David.
David was born with Lipomyelomeningocele—a rare and complex condition related to spina bifida that weakens his legs and affects his balance. Though he faces daily physical challenges, David meets life with an open heart, a quiet strength, and a resilient smile that lights up every room.
Despite his condition, David remains incredibly active and engaged. He’s a huge fan of Japanese anime and finds joy in the colorful worlds of Disney and Pixar—Inside Out, Lilo and Stitch, and Moana are among his favorites. His taste in music is timeless; he loves classic traditional pop, especially the smooth, comforting voice of Frank Sinatra. But above all, his heart belongs to Butterfly—his beloved dog and constant companion.
David is not just brave—he is deeply compassionate. When his mother was diagnosed with cancer, he never left her side. She says he became her caregiver, always making sure she had everything she needed, even when he had so little to give. That’s who David is: a gentle soul with an unshakable spirit.
Though he tends to be quiet and enjoys the peace of his own world, David inspires everyone around him. He is a fighter, determined to be independent, and he reminds us all what courage and love truly look like.
Thanks to the generosity of the Kiwanis Club of Northside Naples, David received his very own adaptive tricycle—a gift that allows him to continue his physical therapy at home, strengthen his legs, and, most importantly, enjoy the freedom to ride and play outside with his siblings. It’s more than a bike. It’s a symbol of movement, joy, and possibility.
