On October 5, just shy of her 11-month birthday, River boarded her very first Miracle Flight. Bright-eyed and full of wonder, she traveled from Rochester, New York, to West Palm Beach, Florida, to see the specialist who could finally offer her real hope.
Born with congenital vertical talus, a rare and rigid foot deformity often mistaken for clubfoot, River had already spent most of her young life in casts and recovering from surgeries. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, congenital vertical talus causes the bones in the foot to align improperly, making the sole appear flat or even convex, and can lead to significant pain and mobility challenges if left untreated.
Despite all she’s endured, River radiates joy. “She’s our brave, joyful warrior princess,” her mom, Monica, shares. “Even when her foot wouldn’t cooperate, she kept trying to stand, trying to walk, and always with a smile. Watching her fall and try again taught us what resilience truly looks like.”
Before Miracle Flights, Monica and her family felt stuck. “We were emotionally and financially drained,” she recalls. “We knew the right doctor was out there, but he was over a thousand miles away. We didn’t know how we’d get her there.”
That changed when a support group introduced them to Miracle Flights.
“When Miracle Flights stepped in, it wasn’t just a plane ticket,” Monica says. “It was someone holding our hand through one of the hardest journeys of our lives. They gave us access to hope.”
River is now in the second phase of casting after her surgery with Dr. Matthew Dobbs and Dr. Williams—a medical team known for their pioneering work in treating complex foot deformities. “Even after her first cast, we saw real improvement,” Monica says. “We finally feel like she’s truly on the right path.”
This month, River has already taken one Miracle Flight, with another booked before the month ends. Each flight brings her closer to walking, to healing, and to a future free from pain.
“She’s been smiling through it all,” Monica says. “Because of Miracle Flights, we’re seeing our daughter’s future transform right before our eyes.”
River’s journey isn’t over. She will need many more trips to West Palm Beach as her treatment continues. You can help her get there. Donate today to support children like River because every flight brings her one step closer to healing, hope, and a brighter tomorrow.
