Mia was born in Croatia with a genetic disorder called hypochondroplasia, which slows cell growth and causes short stature.
Because of her condition, Mia had a hard time making friends. She often felt left out.
“Kids can be very mean if you’re different,” says Mia’s dad, Ivan. “For years, we took Mia to different specialists in Europe without getting the help she needed. I researched endocrinologists all over the world. All signs pointed us to Children’s National Hospital.”
Dr. Dauber, chief of endocrinology at Children’s National, encouraged the family to join a clinical trial that could help Mia.
Mia is growing and thriving thanks to you!
In Mia’s first year participating, she grew more than 3 inches. And her confidence has soared.
Mia’s story highlights the innovative care donors like you make possible. Thank you for helping fund more than 2,000 clinical research projects like the one Mia accessed with your support last year.
Many thanks,
DeAnn Aston Marshall, MHA
Executive Vice President, Chief External Affairs Officer
President, Children’s National Hospital Foundation
Was this story forwarded to you by a friend?
You can get Stories of Strength straight to your inbox too by filling out our email sign-up form.