LIFESTYLE Inspiring Noadiah Watson This is Her Story
It is said that the journey of a thousand miles begins
with one step. And this is the story of young Noadiah Watson, who at twelve years, took her first step. She was born with a rare birth defect called phocomelia. She suffered with many difficulties, but at the age of five, she dreamt of being able to physically walk into her classroom. After several surgeries at Shriners in Galveston, Texas, her dream came true. She walked. It was a life changer for her. Phocomelia syndrome is a rare birth defect characterized, in most instances, by severe malformation of the extremities. Infants born with this condition will have arms and/or legs that are severely shortened or sometimes completely absent. According to her mother, Michelle Mattis, “Twelve years ago, I gave birth to my beautiful little girl with congenital deformities. She had two fingers and six toes. Noadiah, given her condition, accepted herself for her challenges.” Noadiah’s parents hand carried her oftentimes with the help of a stroller, because her only means of moving was Her devotion to study placed on the principal’s honor by using her knees. Despite, she excelled in her school’s roll for six consecutive years. lessons; as kindergarten student, she aimed for excellence. Her handwriting amazed her teachers for someone with just two fingers. She formed her letters correctly much to the chagrin of her classmate. Noadiah’s “always eager to learn more” attitude was contagious, oftentimes pushing those around her to study harder and really focus on schoolwork; failure was never an option for her. The Issa Trust Foundation centered this process to help Noadiah. “I must say thanks to the Issa Trust Foundation for being there. Without them, she would not be able to move around on her feet instead of her knees. I thank all her cheerleaders as she transitions into high school,” stated Michelle. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, she echoed, “Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will. Noadiah came to Houston for her regular medical followups at the Shriners Hospital. ISA Foundation referred Noadiah Watson and her family to the Jamica Foundation of Houston, who brought in the Jamaican community in Houston to play a keen supportive role in this effort. Noadiah attends Westwood High School in Jamaica with the hope of becoming a doctor.
JAMAICA FOUNDATION OF HOUSTON 60th INDEPENDENCE GALA
27
