Gillian Hundley, or better known as “Gigi”, is a young adult who was diagnosed with Angelman’s Syndrome when she was just 2 years old (now 25). Gigi is the entire reason “WHY” behind Toddlers To Grandparents and the Hundley family intends on ensuring our guiding light as we support our members, will forever remain advocating for individuals like Gigi, their service needs and listening to their families.
Angelman's syndrome is a different kind of perfect!
What Gigi LOVES!
- Getting dressed up and going out to eat at fancy restaurants
- Her wheelchair
- Her family
- Swimming
- Cruising to the Caribbean
- Soft blankets and stuffed animals
- Her iPad
- Christmas
- Shopping
What Gigi HATES!
- The sun/heat
- Loud noises
- To get bathed and dressed
- To brush her teeth and hair
- To leave her wheelchair
- To go to the doctor
- Waiting
- Crowds
- Vegetables (except she LOVES cooked carrots!)
- Ride in the backseat of the car
Angelman’s Syndrome
Angelman’s Syndrome is rare genetic disorder that causes the mutation or deletion of the UBE3A gene of chromosome 15 at birth. It affects the nervous system which in turn causes severe developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Due to her diagnosis Gigi experiences seizures, balance and movement struggles, lack of speech (she is non-verbal), frequent laughter and smiling even if her emotions do not match the outward expression, sleep disturbances, low muscle tone, brittle bones, safety issues eating.
On top of her diagnosis and the directly related symptoms, Gigi also experiences other struggles like eczema, psoriasis, skin rashes of all kinds, sensory issues with sounds, smells, food, and texture, and digestive issues.