My Story

At the age of four, I received a diagnosis of Legg-Calve Perthes disease. Despite my young age, comprehending my illness and struggling to walk even short distances proved challenging. My anxious parents, desperate for a cure, consulted numerous specialists across Bay Area hospitals, only to be repeatedly informed that no cure existed for this traumatic disease.

This left my parents in contemplation, uncertain about the future and whether I would develop arthritis.  My orthopedic surgeon proposed a solution to alleviate potential pain in the later stages of the condition – surgery to impede the abnormal growth of my left hip bone, preventing erratic development of the femur’s ball. Post-surgery, I experienced severe symptoms, including fever, nausea, hip stiffness, and excruciating pain in the femur and hip. A noticeable limp in my left leg became a constant reminder. Many at my school gave me hurtful mockery and names for my condition such as “penguin” and “waddle-ahdil”. My parents and I faced sleepless nights, constant tears, and a regimen of medication six times a day.

However, I eventually made a recovery. During my post-surgery checkup, I inquired to the doctor about playing sports. The doctor shared the inspiring story of a Stanford quarterback who had faced the same disease. This instilled hope in me, encouraging me not to abandon what I loved most – playing baseball. Despite my disability, I persevered, setting an example that with determination, one can overcome any obstacle. Today, as a junior, I proudly pitch for my high school varsity baseball team, a testament to my unwavering hard work, dedication, and persistence in pursuing my dreams.

Ahdil