Empowering Families of Children with Spinal Defects

The Zhavea Leone Foundation is a remarkable non-profit organization that is making a significant impact on the lives of families with children facing spinal defects and disabilities. By providing essential resources, equipment, and support, the foundation is empowering these families to achieve greater independence and quality of life. Zhavea’s inspiring story and leadership serve as a testament to the foundation’s mission, and with continued support, The Zhavea Leone Foundation can continue to transform the lives of countless individuals locally and internationally in need

Zhavea Leone Foundation

Non-profit organization dedicated to supporting families of children with disabilities and spinal defects

Comprehensive Approach

Assist in acquiring mobility equipment, supplies and other necessary resources for independence

Mission

Provide essential resources, equipment, and support to empower families and improve quality of life

The Foundation’s Work

  • Mobility Equipment

Providing wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and other assistive devices to enhance independence and mobility.

  • Financial Assistance

Offering grants and financial support to help families afford the high costs of medical care and equipment.

  • Educational Resources

Providing informational materials, workshops, and support groups to empower families and promote understanding of spinal defects

  • Delivering food to households experiencing financial instability

“I want to help other kids with similar spinal conditions with my non-profit organization”
— Zhavea Leone

Zhavea’s Journey

  • 2016 (Aug)- Underwent Surgery to Release the Achilles Tendon on the Left Foot

  • 2018- (Oct)-Underwent Surgery to Release the Achilles Tendon on the Right Foot

  • 2021- (Nov-May)-Serial Casting of both feet for 6 months (resulting in a dislocated hip and a right proximal tibia fracture, which healed in some valgus and some right tibial external torsion

  • 2021- (May)-Hospitalization for 5 days for Osteomyelitis

  • 2023- (Sept)-Underwent 5-hour surgery to correct tethered spinal cord and excise lipomyelomeningocele

  • 2024- (Aug)-Underwent surgery on left foot, including closing wedge astectomy and osteotomy

  • Age 10- Decided to start a non-profit organization to assist other children with similar spinal conditions

  • Ongoing- Engaged in extensive and aggressive physical therapy to restore lower extremity nerve and muscle function

Zhavea Leone is a remarkable young girl who has faced and overcome numerous medical challenges due to her spinal defects, diagnosed with Lumbar Lipomyelomeningocele, a complex tethered closed spinal cord, bilateral Recurrent rigid acquired equinovarus foot deformities, and a Neurogenic Bladder.

Zhavea has undergone multiple surgeries and extensive physical therapy to regain her mobility and independence. Despite the adversity she has faced. Zhavea has maintained a strong spirit, showcasing her intelligence, personality, and determination well beyond her years.

At age 10, Zhavea has decided to start a non-profit organization, The Zhavea Leone Foundation, to assist other children with similar spinal conditions and provide them with the resources and support they need to lead a normal and joyful life.

Key Milestones

Call to Action

Volunteer

Spread Awareness

Donate

Together we can make a lasting impact on the lives of families and children facing the challenges of Spinal defects.

Your support, whether through volunteering, donations or spreading awareness, can help turn their dreams of independence and joy into reality.

Contact Us

Interested in working together? We can’t wait to hear from you!

(407) 902-4215/(407)951-0814

info@forgottenangelszhavealeonefoundation.org