Mackenzie Scott
Like any other 4-year-old girl dressed in her pink tutu, Mackenzie dreamed of dancing as a ballerina. Soon after her first class, however, Mackenzie was diagnosed with Legg-Calves Perthes, a degenerative bone disease, in her left hip.
After months of treatment with limited success, Mackenzie and her family met Dr. Schoenecker and his team at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Her therapy began with a surgery releasing her tendons; then, she had her legs cast to extend and ensure the proper containment of her femoral head. She was wheelchair-bound for four years to protect the bone. Her body then reshaped and finally re-ossified the affected bone and she was able to walk again.
Mackenzie finally got to dance with her family in Destin, Fla., to “Brick House” by The Commodores.
Today, this 17-year-old lives in Belleville, Ill., and served as the 2012 Miracle Ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network. During her treatment, Mackenzie noticed many children who were unable to enjoy the holidays. Her organization, Fire Truck O’ Toys, now ensures that every child hospitalized over the Christmas season receives a gift.