Hi, my name is Allison Olivia Joyner and I have Rett Syndrome. Rett Syndrome is a neurological disorder that occurs predominently in females (male cases are very rare and are usually fatal).  I appeared to be developing normally until I was about 18 months old.  I walked, began talking and did many other things that most babies do. I really enjoyed books.  Then I began to regress.  I stopped saying the words I knew and didn't care to play with my toys. I can still walk and and I try to talk.  My family does recognize some of the things I say.  They also say I do a lot of talking with my eyes and facial expressions and they do understand my wants and needs. You see, my family takes wonderful care of me and they love me very very much. The doctors told my mom and dad that I could have many different things, but they really were not sure. It was in March of 2002 that I was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome.  I know it was hard on my family, but they told me everything would be okay and that they would take care of me. I was born on October 10, 1995, which makes me 7 years old. I live in North Carolina with my mom and step-dad (Judy and Larry) and my sister Sarah, step-brother Jarrett and step-sister Ashley. I spend lots of time with my dad and step-mom (Chuck and Susan).  I am surrounded by lots of love everywhere I go. I go to Belmont Elementary School where I am in a class with other special kids and have the best teachers anyone could ask for.  They work really hard with me and help me to learn new things everyday.  I love all my teachers very much and thank them for helping me to learn, having patience and understanding.  I like to watch Barney, Arthur, Clifford and many other programs (my sisters and brother watch my shows with me, but I think they're a little to old for them). I enjoy playing in the pool, taking walks, playing outside and cuddling when I am tired. I have a collie dog named Cheyanne.  Cheyanne has so much patience with me.  She lets me pull her hair and sit on her.  She likes to get in my bed with me, but my mom doesn't care to much for that.  I hope that one day they will find a cure for this terrible thing called Rett Syndrome.  I don't want anymore kids to go through what me and so many others are going through.  I am glad you stopped by to visit with me and please come again.  Tell all your friends about me and help spread the word about Rett Syndrome. Hugs and kisses to all!! Love, Allison Olivia For more pictures and my special poem click the next button below please be sure to sign my guestbook so I will know that you visited