Diagnosed in her mother’s womb with fibular deficiency, a condition where one leg is shorter than the other because of a shortened fibula, Melissa has spent the past year undergoing treatment at Shriners Children’s Texas. Her condition once caused her to walk on her tiptoes due to the difference in leg length.
Currently, she is well into a six-month leg-lengthening process using a specialized device called a hexapod circular external fixator. This type of external fixator allows for the gradual correction of complex issues in the fibula, using a combination of struts and pins which are adjusted gradually over the course of the treatment, eventually making both legs similar in length.
Originally from California, Melissa and her family relocated to Port Arthur, Texas, in 2023, shortly before her treatment began at Shriners Children's. Since then, she has undergone six surgeries, each one bringing her closer to her goal of walking with both feet flat on the ground.
Cody J. Sanderson, M.D., Melissa’s orthopedic surgeon, is part of a multidisciplinary care team working closely to support her recovery. “Melissa is an amazing and incredibly resilient girl with fibular deficiency, which can lead to one leg being shorter than the other,” said Dr. Sanderson. “In young children, an option is to lengthen the leg using a hexapod circular external fixator. We are blessed to have multiple services under one roof at Shriners Children’s Texas to work with these patients. I can actively collaborate with Dr. Cat [Catherine Tallant, Psy.D, MA, BA], psychologist; Elizabeth, physical therapist; Meredith, prosthetics and orthotics specialist; Michael, care manager; and Kinley, social worker, to improve patient outcomes. Melissa is almost done lengthening and is doing great!”
We are blessed to have multiple services under one roof at Shriners Children’s Texas to work with these patients.
Beyond her medical journey, Melissa’s spirit shines brightly through her love of music. She plays the violin at school and finds joy and comfort in singing. Her favorite artist is Katy Perry, whose empowering songs mirror Melissa’s own perseverance.
Music therapy has played a special role in Melissa’s healing. She is currently working with Angela Espinoza, MT-BC, the hospital’s music therapist, to record an original song she wrote in honor of her parents’ 25th wedding anniversary. Titled Story, the song recounts how her parents met and built their family, a touching tribute that showcases Melissa’s creativity and emotional depth. She dreams of one day appearing on America’s Got Talent, just like former Shriners Children’s Texas patient Kechi.
With her treatment nearing its final stages, Melissa continues to inspire those around her with her strength, talent and unwavering positivity. Whether in the hospital or performing for others, Melissa is living proof that resilience and passion can turn even the hardest challenges into a beautiful story.
Melissa smiles with the team during her physical therapy appointment.
Dr. Sanderson gives Melissa a thumbs up for her great progress.
Psychologist Dr. Cat shows Melissa a fun game to play during therapy.
Melissa records a song with music therapist Angie.
