Picture day is a thrilling event for many children, allowing them to showcase their unique style. However, for some, likе three-year-old Kaylieann Steinbach, it can be an intimidating experience. Kaylieann, who faces profound hearing loss, was eagerly anticipating picture day. Nevertheless, her disappointment in the clothes her parents selected led her to take matters into her own hands and express her individuality.
Kaylieann’s adoration for superheroes, particularly Superman and Supergirl, is well-known. Due to her hearing loss, she affectionately refers to them as “Pooterman” and “Pootergirl.” Naturally, when presented with various outfit options, Kaylieann insisted on wearing her beloved “Pootergirl” costume.
Supportive and understanding, Kaylieann’s parents, Austin and Cristina Steinbach, wholeheartedly embraced her decision. As Kaylieann confidently stood before the camera, dressed in her superhero attire, her joy radiated through the lens. To complete her picture day look, she even brought along a superhero doll as her loyal companion. Kaylieann’s unique sense of style has made her a trendsetter at school. According to Austin, she frequently dons different costumes, and both her teachers and classmates eagerly anticipate the daily unveiling of her superhero ensembles. Inspired by his daughter’s independence, Austin shаrеd Kaylieann’s class photo on Reddit, hoping to spread joy and celebrate her indomitable spirit. Little did he know the tremendous impact it would have. The post was inundated with a flood of supportive messages, particularly from the deaf community
Supportive and understanding, Kaylieann’s parents, Austin and Cristina Steinbach, wholeheartedly embraced her decision. As Kaylieann confidently stood before the camera, dressed in her superhero attire, her joy radiated through the lens. To complete her picture day look, she even brought along a superhero doll as her loyal companion. Kaylieann’s unique sense of style has made her a trendsetter at school. According to Austin, she frequently dons different costumes, and both her teachers and classmates eagerly anticipate the daily unveiling of her superhero ensembles. Inspired by his daughter’s independence, Austin shаrеd Kaylieann’s class photo on Reddit, hoping to spread joy and celebrate her indomitable spirit. Little did he know the tremendous impact it would have. The post was inundated with a flood of supportive messages, particularly from the deaf community.
“The reaction and support from the deaf community is astounding,” Austin expressed in an interview. “I never expected her picture to touch so many hearts. It’s been overwhelming to receive all the messages of kindness and encouragement.” Kaylieann’s story stands as a true testament to her courage and resilience. Despite the challenges she faces with her hearing, she fearlessly chose to be herself on picture day. In the eyes of many, including myself, she embodies the spirit of a real superhero. Kaylieann, you are an incredibly brave and inspiring young girl. In my eyes, you are the true superhero! If you find Kaylieann’s story as wonderful as I do, please shаrе this article and spread the joy she brings!
This precious little girl made her entrance into the world adorned with “polka dots”: Check out how stunning she is at the age of 8!
Rebecca Callaghan faced a challenging pregnancy in 2012 when doctors decided to induce labor early due to excess fluid around her baby.
It wasn’t until about an hour after Matilda was born that any issues were suspected. Initially, a large blue mark on her face and extending down her body was mistaken for a bruise. However, just 30 minutes later, doctors informed Rebecca and her husband that it was, in fact, a birthmark.
Two weeks postpartum, Matilda was diagnosed with Sturge-Weber syndrome, a rare neurological condition associated with skin abnormalities that can lead to paralysis, learning difficulties, and seizures.
Matilda’s health quickly deteriorated, necessitating her transfer to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, England. The parents’ joy transformed into deep anxiety, as they feared they might lose their newborn. “We couldn’t travel with her because she was so sick. Watching her taken away, we were terrified we’d never see her again”, her father shared with the Daily Mail.
Adding to their worries, they discovered Matilda had two heart defects. Despite the grim prognosis, she displayed remarkable resilience, successfully undergoing surgery. She also began laser treatments to address her unusual birthmark, a process that could take up to 16 hours to fully fade.
“She receives treatments every two months. The laser leaves her skin red and covered in blisters, which eventually heal”, her father, Paul, explained in a 2016 interview. He recounted the misconceptions from others, stating: “People assume we’ve somehow harmed her”.
Although these treatments are painful, Matilda is a cheerful child. Sadly, many stare at her or make hurtful remarks, even asking if her parents had caused her birthmark by allowing her to burn herself. “They only see the surface and make judgments. I wish they could see beyond the mole to the beautiful person she is”, Paul lamented.
In addition to her birthmark, Matilda faces vision challenges and struggles to walk. Yet, with the help of specialized equipment, she has taken steps on her own.
Despite her struggles, Matilda remains upbeat and resilient. “She’s incredibly stubborn; she’ll do things her way or not at all!” her father noted, emphasizing that she always greets others with a smile. The family regularly confronts stares, insults, and teasing, but they remain proud of Matilda. “Despite everything, she’s thriving”, her father said.
Now nine years old, Matilda’s family recently shared an updated photo of her in her wheelchair in June 2019. They have set up a fundraising page to raise £5,000 for a new wheelchair, enabling Matilda to enjoy her favorite activity: spending time outdoors, away from crowds. “We want to help her continue doing what she loves”, the page states.
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