Clarissa’s parents noticed that she was not developing normally around six months when she started missing notable milestones. She was referred to a specialist at Texas Children’s in Houston that was part of the Rett and Foxg1 NHS study. At nine months old they diagnosed her with Foxg1, and she started therapy. Since then, she has been a brave little fighter, constantly improving.

Clarissa’s condition affects her brain development. She is nonverbal,  developmentally delayed, and dependent on her parents for all daily activities. She has low muscle tone and uses a wheelchair. She takes medicine for epilepsy and also has a G-tube for most of her daily nutrition, but she does enjoy  food orally.

Clarissa’s sister is one of her biggest cheerleaders, and her family finds so much joy from spending time with her. She is a very happy girl who loves music, swimming, and spending time with her family and friends. Despite being nonverbal, she is very social and loves people.