January 2024 AMCer

In the midst of a journey marked by years of longing, Corbin’s family received the news they had been desperately waiting for—they were expecting their long-awaited rainbow baby. The elation was palpable, but their joy was soon met with a storm of uncertainty when a 20-week ultrasound revealed the challenges that lay ahead for their precious child. Armed with a sticky note that bore the words “short extremities, joint contractures, and clubfeet,” along with a referral to a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist, Corbin’s family found themselves navigating a sea of questions without answers.

With hearts heavy and anxious anticipation, they awaited the specialist’s appointment, only to be stunned when the doctor suggested the unimaginable—a termination of the pregnancy. Yet, driven by the unwavering love they already held for their unborn child, they chose a different path. On May 22, 2016, their son made his debut into the world, a bundle of perfection amidst his challenges. His official diagnoses included bilateral clubfeet, hip dysplasia, torticollis, and arthrogryposis. In his short seven years, he bore the weight of leg and hip/spica casts, hand splints, cranial helmets, leg braces, and special shoes, enduring a broken leg, multiple hospital stays, and several surgeries. Through it all, Corbin’s indomitable spirit shone brightly, radiating resilience and warmth, a source of boundless pride for his family.

For three years, Corbin’s family sought local care in Atlanta, but their quest for specialized expertise led them on a journey. A journey that took them to Dr. Matthew Dobbs, a renowned expert in the field. The path was not without sacrifice, involving extensive long-distance travel, but it was a path forged by love and hope, a path that held the promise of independent walking for their son. For 4.5 years, they remained under Dr. Dobbs’ care, even following him from St. Louis, Missouri, to West Palm Beach, Florida. And it was in West Palm Beach that they discovered another beacon of hope—Dr. David Feldman, a researcher dedicated to Corbin’s primary condition, Arthrogryposis. For 2.5 years, Corbin has been under Dr. Feldman’s guidance, witnessing transformative changes in his life.

With 12 procedures behind him and more on the horizon, Corbin’s family remains resolute in their pursuit of his independence. Arthrogryposis poses its challenges, necessitating frequent physical therapy, stretching casts, and interventions aimed at unlocking his potential for independent walking. Yet, despite the odds, Corbin exudes boundless joy, his radiant smile illuminating every room he enters. He recently embarked on a new adventure—wheelchair basketball—discovering camaraderie with peers who share his journey.

In the face of this extraordinary story lies a deeper tale of love, determination, and resilience. Corbin’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to organizations like Helping AMC Families, whose unwavering support lightens the burden of families like theirs. By donating to Helping AMC Families Incorporated, you can join us in our mission to provide essential assistance to families facing similar challenges. Your contribution will enable children like Corbin to receive the life-changing care they deserve and help alleviate the financial burdens that often accompany their journey. Together, we can make a profound difference in the life of AMCers and empower these remarkable individuals to shine even brighter and achieve their dreams.

Helping AMC Families Incorporated is thrilled to be able to assist Corbin and his family with the out-of-pocket cost for Corbin’s intense physical therapy sessions 2-3x per week.