Lucyana was born at 26 weeks in 2022, with 126 days in the NICU before coming home. Her NICU nurses called her “Miss Don’t Touch Me”. If you were wondering, that is still very true; she is independent and wants to do everything on her own. Every day is and continues to be a milestone. Every moment is a miracle, and every movement she makes is something we could only dream that we’d be able to see.

Lucyana, the most vibrant now three-year-old, has been diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and despite her difficulties, approaches each day with joy and curiosity. She truly shows us something new each day, keeps us laughing, and strives for encouragement.

We have had our share of doctors and specialists, as well as therapists and support through ECI. It’s a journey we didn’t know we’d be on, but it’s our journey now, and Lucyana, if you’ve met her, is one of the most inspiring little people you’ll ever meet.

Lucyana can sit up on her own, but has never crawled or walked on her own. She has been practicing her walking skills for over a year now in her Gain Trainer, which we call her Walker. Her current move in her Walker is walking backward and, on occasion, kicking the ball around the house. She loves taking her walker outside and to the park. Each day, Lucyana is eager to practice taking steps while holding our hands and loves to go up and down the stairs; we get tired before she does!

Now at The Caroline School, we are incredibly lucky to have found a community and network of care that supports children with disabilities and their families. The dedicated teachers and staff provide tailored support that meets her needs, helping her to grow both physically and emotionally. They love her, encourage her, and celebrate her small victories. Their empathy and understanding truly make Lucyana’s world a better place.

Every day, Lucyana achieves something new. It’s a different kind of celebration for these small moments that we can forget come so easy to others. The encouragement Lucyana needs to strive and push forward will always be here from her family. We hope in our hearts, our angel can one day run in the park with her friends. Please join us at the Houston Zoo for the Walk With Me fundraiser benefiting an important stepping stone in Lucyana’s journey.

- Mireles Family

Walk With Me spreads hope and raises funds for individuals and families living with all types of disabilities, and we need your support to make a difference! Every donation—big or small—helps us reach our fundraising goal and directly impacts this important cause.

Here's how you can help:

• Donate: Contribute whatever you can. Every dollar counts!
• Spread the Word: Share our fundraising page with your friends, family, and social networks. Let’s spread awareness so we can raise more!

Thank you so much for your support! We couldn’t do this without you!