Community rallies to support Hartselle woman with spina bifida
By Linda Gordon
For 18-year-old Hailee Grace Suggs, life has never been about limitations. Born with spina bifida myelomeningocele at the L2 level, Hailee has faced multiple medical challenges. Yet, those who know her describe a young woman overflowing with joy, determination and an undeniable zest for life.
The daughter of Jamie and Stephanie Suggs, she has been a beloved member of the Hartselle community since she began preschool at Crestline Elementary at age three. Now a junior in Hartselle High School’s IRC program, Suggs is known for her quick wit, infectious smile and caring heart. “Whether she’s rolling through the hallways in her wheelchair, cheering on her classmates, or ensuring her friends are taken care of, Hailee is a light in the lives of those around her,” her mother Stephanie Suggs said.
“Hailee’s impact on the community is immeasurable. Everywhere she goes, people recognize her, often stopping to say hello or give her a hug,” Stephanie said.
Despite the physical challenges that come with spina bifida, Suggs has never let them dampen her spirit. Stephanie describes her as someone who “never shows signs of bitterness or depression about her mobility.” While she sometimes must sit on the sidelines, unable to physically participate in activities she loves, she remains a joyful and enthusiastic spectator.
One of her biggest passions is basketball, a sport she has adored since she was little. She also enjoys softball, bowling, swimming, word search puzzles and arts and crafts. She has participated in the Shining Stars program through Hartselle Parks and Recreation, where she plays multiple adaptive sports, and competed in beauty pageants, earning the title of Little Miss Alabama Shining Star and Best Smile.
Suggs poses for a photo with Kelli Morton at a Shining Stars basketball game.
Suggs has undergone more than 20 surgeries in her lifetime, including a complex 14-hour operation in 2017. One of her biggest medical battles was surviving not one, but four rare bladder ruptures—each with a 50/50 chance of survival. Her doctors were astounded by her resilience, calling her a true fighter.
Her medical team, school faculty and family have played a significant role in supporting her journey. The special needs program at Hartselle City Schools, along with dedicated teachers, aides, and school nurses, has provided her with not just education but also a nurturing environment filled with love and care.
In 2013, Suggs’s dream came true when she was granted a wish by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. She and her family were treated to a magical, all-expenses-paid trip to Universal Studios where she was transformed into Princess Cinderella for a day. Meeting her favorite superheroes, including a surprise encounter with Spider-Man, was the highlight of her trip and a memory she cherishes to this day.
Now, Suggs has a new wish—one that the community has the power to help make come true. She is participating in the Great Bike Giveaway, a contest that provides adaptive bicycles to children with special needs. Since she has long dreamed of riding a bike like other kids, this opportunity is incredibly meaningful to her.
The contest runs until 11 a.m. March 19 and people can vote for Suggs once per day at https://www.greatbikegiveaway.com/voteforHaileeS. If she doesn’t win, she can still receive a bike through donations totaling $3,800, with fundraising continuing until April 17.
As of Friday, she is currently in sixth place, and her family is rallying the community to help her get the votes she needs.
Like any teenager, Suggs is looking forward to her senior year. Though her future may not follow the same path as her peers, one thing is certain—she will continue to inspire those around her with her strength, courage and unwavering spirit.
“She will always be strong, courageous, and will keep fighting no matter what,” Stephanie said.
