School can be a struggle, but it is always worth it in the end. For Jose Jandres, coming to school here at RCCMV is apple pie in comparison to the disease he was born with.
Jose was diagnosed with Spina Bifida at birth.
What is Spina Bifida?
Spina bifida (SB) is a neural tube defect (a disorder involving incomplete development of the brain, spinal cord, and/or their protective coverings) caused by the failure of the fetus's spine to close properly during the first month of pregnancy.
Infants born with SB sometimes have an open lesion on their spine where significant damage to the nerves and spinal cord has occurred.
Although the spinal opening can be surgically repaired shortly after birth, the nerve damage is permanent, resulting in varying degrees of paralysis of the lower limbs. Even when there is no lesion present there may be improperly formed or missing vertebrae and accompanying nerve damage.
There is no cure for SB because the nerve tissue cannot be replaced or repaired. Treatment for the variety of effects of SB may include surgery, medication, and physiotherapy. Many individuals with SB will need assistive devices such as braces, crutches, or wheelchairs.
Ongoing therapy, medical care, and/or surgical treatments may be necessary to prevent and manage complications throughout the individual's life. Surgery to close the newborn's spinal opening is generally performed within 24 hours after birth to minimize the risk of infection and to preserve existing function in the spinal cord.
The prognosis for individuals with SB depends on the number and severity of abnormalities. Prognosis is poorest for those with complete paralysis, hydrocephalus, and other congenital defects. With proper care, most children with SB live well into adulthood.
Pasted from <http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/spina_bifida/spina_bifida.htm>
Jose is now 21 years old. He is a sweet young man and is currently enrolled in English and Math classes. He can walk on braces with assistance but prefers the wheelchair because it enables him to get around better. He aspires to be an RN and hopes to one day work in a school environment as a school nurse.
Jose has a sister Judy and a brother name Kevin. His parents are Margarita and Mario Jandres. So if you see Jose on Campus, say hello or hold the door for him. He’s got to get to class too.
