Many little girls dream of being princesses, and Michele Kingsland is no different. Well, she is a little different, because her wish was actually granted. The Make-A-Wish Foundation crowned Michele as Princess for a Day after hearing about the 17-year-old’s dream. Her grandmother explained just how special the day was for the teen, as she has Rett syndrome and “won’t ever experience going to prom and getting married. This day is all of that combined.”
Princess for a Day
Michele received her Rett syndrome diagnosis at age 12 after being misdiagnosed with epilepsy with a seizure disorder. She’s been in special education since age two and considered a miracle since her birth, as her mother was impacted by a brain tumor when she was young that she was told would stop her from having children. In fact, she was also granted a wish by the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
When it came to Michele’s wish, she wanted to be a princess for a day, and the charity did everything they could to make that happen. That meant a complete makeover, a tiara, a gown, and princess slippers, along with a night at The Kentucky Castle.
Michele spent her perfect day dancing and meeting her royal subjects, all while being chauffeured around in a horse-drawn carriage.
About Rett Syndrome
Rett syndrome is a severe, rare neurological disorder that primarily affects females. It was once thought to be a form of autism but has since been distinguished as its own condition. It is a genetic disorder, with a mutation occurring on the X chromosome. The exact location of this mutation and its effects are unknown, but researchers do know that it is typically a sporadic mutation. Symptoms of this condition usually appear between the first 12-18 months of life. Effects include slowed brain growth, a small head, issues with muscle coordination, social anxiety, lack of language skills, seizures, uncoordinated breathing, and a tense or irritable disposition.
After these symptoms are noticed, doctors will conduct a clinical examination and rule out other conditions, such as autism. Genetic testing will be used to confirm, and it can also show the severity of a specific case. There is no cure for Rett syndrome, and treatment consists of symptom management. Doctors will suggest physical, speech, and occupational therapy. They may also prescribe anti-seizure medications.
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