Baby Adalee: Born With Missing Bones in Both Legs, the Little Girl Who Now Runs on Rainbow Prosthetic Legs

At just three years old, Adalee is full of energy. She loves painting, swimming, going to the beach, and playing with her family. But before she could enjoy these everyday childhood adventures, she had to overcome a rare congenital condition that affected the development of both her legs.

Adalee was born with bilateral fibular hemimelia, a condition in which the fibula bones in both lower legs are missing or underdeveloped. One of her feet was congenitally absent, while the other was not formed well enough to support a brace.

Her journey would involve difficult decisions, specialized orthopedic care, and a treatment plan designed to help her move comfortably and independently as she grew.

A Rare Congenital Difference in Both Legs

Fibular hemimelia is a congenital limb difference that affects the fibula, the smaller of the two bones in the lower leg. The fibula runs along the outer side of the leg and contributes to the structure and stability of the ankle.

In children born with this condition, the fibula may be partially developed or completely absent. The severity can vary considerably, and the condition may affect the shape of the foot and ankle, the length of the leg, and the ability to stand or walk.

Adalee had bilateral fibular hemimelia, meaning both of her legs were affected. Her condition was particularly complex because one foot was congenitally absent and the other was not sufficiently formed to support bracing.

These differences meant that ordinary footwear and conventional braces could not provide the support she needed. Her family had to consider how best to help her stand, move, and participate in everyday activities as she grew.

A Difficult Decision About Treatment

Adalee’s family initially sought treatment at another children’s hospital. When her previous doctor left, however, finding timely continued care became difficult.

Her family eventually connected with Shriners Children’s Texas, where pediatric orthopedic surgeon Dr. Cody Sanderson evaluated her condition and discussed the available options.

One possibility was reconstructive surgery. But in Adalee’s case, reconstruction would have involved multiple operations and lengthy recovery periods.

After carefully considering the options with her medical team, her family chose amputation and prosthetic fitting as the approach they believed would best support her mobility and quality of life.

It was a deeply personal decision. Every child with fibular hemimelia has different needs, and treatment must be individualized according to the anatomy of the legs and feet, the child’s development, and the family’s goals.

Learning to Move With Prosthetic Legs

Following treatment, Adalee began using prosthetic legs on both sides. These devices were designed to help her stand, walk, and move more freely.

Rather than spending her childhood undergoing repeated reconstructive procedures, she could focus more of her time on learning new skills and enjoying the activities she loved.

Her prosthetist, Anna, later fitted her with a new pair of rainbow-colored prosthetic legs. The bright colors gave Adalee something exciting to show off, while the carefully fitted devices supported her growing independence.

When she first tried the new prostheses, she was eager to show them to her doctor. She walked down the hospital hallway alongside Dr. Sanderson, chatting happily as she went.

For Adalee, the new legs meant more than a medical device. They offered an opportunity to explore her surroundings, join in play, and experience activities that other children her age often take for granted.

A Little Girl With Big Plans

Adalee is described by her care team as energetic, talkative, and determined. She enjoys swimming, painting, visiting the beach, and playing with her stepbrother.

She also loves dressing up and expressing her personality through imaginative play. Her colorful prosthetic legs have become another way for her to show her individuality.

Her grandmother, Karen, has been encouraged by the progress she has made. The family is grateful for the care and support provided by the Shriners Children’s team.

Although Adalee can now run around and play, her treatment remains an ongoing process. As a growing child, she will need new prosthetic legs periodically so that her equipment continues to fit her changing body.

Looking Ahead With Confidence

Adalee’s story illustrates that a congenital limb difference does not have to define a child’s entire childhood. With an appropriate treatment plan, rehabilitation, and well-fitted prosthetic devices, children with limb differences can develop mobility and independence in ways that suit their individual needs.

Her experience also highlights the importance of helping families understand their options. Reconstructive surgery may be appropriate for some children, while amputation and prosthetic care may offer better function for others.

There is no single treatment that works for every child. The goal is to find an approach that supports comfort, movement, participation, and long-term well-being.

For Adalee, the sight of her walking and running in her rainbow-colored prosthetic legs represents an important milestone. She still has growing to do and new challenges to face, but she is already showing the world her lively personality and determination.

Her story is a reminder that children are much more than their medical diagnoses. With family support and individualized care, they can keep exploring, learning, playing, and building their own futures.

Sources

• Shriners Children’s
• Shriners Children’s Texas
• Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services