Claire Aiello and Peggy Dobbs

Claire Aiello grew up facing significant medical challenges. As a small child, she experienced unexplained illness, including being born with her foot bent backward. After years of uncertainty, doctors finally diagnosed her with closed spina bifida, caused by a fatty tumor at the base of her spine.
Her mother, Peggy Dobbs, recalls the early warning signs, Claire’s difficulty walking and the special shoes they purchased in hopes of helping her. The turning point came when they learned Claire was suffering from neurological damage.
Both Claire and Peggy speak with deep gratitude for Shand’s Teaching Hospital, crediting the medical team there with saving Claire’s life. The hospital identified the spinal tumor and performed the surgery that changed her future.
In their reflection, Claire and Peggy express immense thankfulness for the successful treatment and celebrate how Claire has gone on to live a wonderful, fulfilling life despite the challenges of her early years.