Katie and Victoria's Journey: A Story of Strength and Determination

Katie and Victoria's Journey: A Story of Strength and Determination
In June 2018, Katie Cole was admitted to the Studer Family Children’s Hospital in Pensacola due to complications from pre-eclampsia and type 2 diabetes. Her daughter Victoria wasn’t due until August, but worsening symptoms led to an emergency C-section on July 4. Born at 35 weeks, Victoria weighed 7 lbs. 6 oz. and had to be resuscitated before being taken to the NICU, where she stayed for seven days.

Early on, Victoria seemed to meet her milestones, but Katie noticed signs that something wasn’t right. Victoria cried in pain during tummy time and struggled with sitting and crawling. After medical evaluations, she was diagnosed with Spastic Cerebral Palsy Quadriplegia and bilateral hip dysplasia. Therapy began at just 12 months old, including physical, speech, occupational, and feeding therapy. Despite Botox treatments and wearing AFOs, progress was slow.

Katie discovered a potential breakthrough when she came across a video about Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR). After seeking second opinions, Victoria was referred to Dr. Perez and underwent SDR in November 2022. Recovery was tough, including a hospital stay and a return trip due to an infection, but the surgery made a remarkable difference. Victoria became stronger, more mobile, and no longer needed daily muscle relaxers.

Dr. Perez reflected on Victoria’s progress, saying:
"Following Victoria's course after her Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy has been beyond rewarding and her progress demonstrates in full light the intersectionality of innovation, comprehensive multi-disciplinary care, and patient motivation and determination in achieving what seemingly is impossible. Victoria's triumph is testament to the fact that we should continue to invest in the resources that will improve the quality of life of patients like Victoria across the world.”

Now six years old, Victoria is nearly walking on her own and can walk over 20 feet with her walker. Katie, a Walmart employee, brings her daughter to the Destin store during the Children’s Miracle Network campaign to help raise funds for other kids in need. Walmart is a proud corporate partner of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, and Katie’s personal connection to the Studer Family Children’s Hospital drives her to support their mission—not just during the six-week in-store campaign, but all year long.

Katie and Victoria’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of a mother’s determination. Thanks to expert care and community support, they continue to move forward—together.