Carleigh’s Story

At just 6 years old, Carleigh has already overcome more than most people face in a lifetime. She was born with pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency (PDCD), a rare and severe metabolic disorder. Many children with this condition don’t live past age 2, but Carleigh is a fighter. Once unable to walk or communicate, she now greets each day with a smile.

Her journey hasn’t been easy, and there are many more challenges ahead, but with the help of Niswonger Children’s Network, Carleigh has a team – and a family – believing in her potential. Carleigh receives all her therapies through Ballad Health, where she’s found life-changing support. Her mother, Courtney, credits physical therapist Travis Coombs at Niswonger Children’s Hospital’s Pediatric Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy Clinic with helping Carleigh take her first steps. “She’s the reason Carleigh can walk,” her mom says. “She’s truly saved her.”

“Travis is the reason Carleigh can walk. She's truly saved her.”

Now beginning first grade, Carleigh remains nonverbal but is working with speech and applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapists to unlock new forms of communication. One thing that always makes her happy is music. “That’s her thing,” Courtney says. “It’s helped her through so many hurdles.”

Through every challenge, her mom stays strong, encouraged by small victories and a devoted care team. “Carleigh will make her own milestones,” Courtney says. “I just have to be behind her and cheer her on for every small thing she does. She’s always been the happiest kid, smiling all the time. She’s our beacon of light."

Want to learn more about Niswonger Children’s Network?

The Niswonger Children’s Network is dedicated to improving the health and future of the Appalachian Highlands through expert pediatric care so that we can share more heartwarming stories like Carleigh's. Read more about the Niswonger Children's Network.

Read more Niswonger Children’s Stories here.