Soon after his birth, Luis’s parents and doctors noticed developmental differences, including low muscle tone and delays in reaching early milestones. Despite visits with numerous specialists and testing that ruled out various conditions, the cause of Luis’s symptoms remained unclear. After a long-awaited comprehensive genetic panel, Luis received a diagnosis just before his third birthday.

Luis was diagnosed with HADDS—Hypotonia, Ataxia, and Delayed Development Syndrome—a rare neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by low muscle tone, balance and coordination difficulties, and delays in gross motor, fine motor, and communication skills. While HADDS is not a progressive disorder, early intervention is key.

Luis is full of life and curiosity. He zooms around with his blue walker, which gives him independence and freedom to explore. He’s steadily improving in his mobility and communication—working with therapists on walking, fine motor skills, and using a speech device along with a few American Sign Language signs. At home, he’s bravely taking more independent steps with the support of his parents and big brother.

Luis dreams of driving hot rods and one day, riding a rocket into space.