Announcing our 2026 Hydrocephalus Association Scholarship Recipients!

October 5, 2026

By the Hydrocephalus Association

The Hydrocephalus Association (HA) is pleased to announce the 2026 Hydrocephalus Association Scholarship Award Recipients. We extend our gratitude to everyone who applied for a scholarship and congratulate those selected this year. Established in 1994, HA’s scholarship program provides financial assistance to capable and promising teens and adults living with the ongoing challenges and complexities of hydrocephalus.

Since the program’s inception, HA has awarded 296 scholarships to future leaders of our community. We are proud to honor these remarkable young adults, who in addition to successfully managing their hydrocephalus, continue to excel in the classroom, volunteer, and give back to help their local communities. They are an inspiration to us all, proving that hydrocephalus does not stand in the way of pursuing one’s goals.

These eighteen scholarships are funded by:

Gerard Swartz Fudge Memorial Scholarship Fund
Baldus Family Scholarship in Memory Gerard Swartz Fudge Scholarship
Morris L. and Rebecca Ziskind Memorial Scholarship Fund
Anthony Abbene Scholarship Fund
Justin Scot Alston Memorial Scholarship Fund
Mario J. Tocco Hydrocephalus Foundation Scholarship Fund
Kate Finlayson Memorial Scholarship
Jacobsen Family Scholarship
Logan Aamot Scholarship Fund
Lynette Tenaglia Memorial Scholarship Fund
Hydrocephalus Association Scholarship, which is provided by Erik and Lisa Chamberlain.

We’re deeply grateful to our generous donors for making these scholarships possible and to the Scholarship Committee for their ongoing dedication and support.

Congratulations 2026 Scholarship Recipients!

Harper Adams

Recipient of the Hydrocephalus Association Fund Scholarship Supported by Erik & Lisa Chamberlain

Harper is studying Electronic Arts with a concentration in Interactive New Media at Missouri State University. She hopes to become a user interface and user experience designer, combining her interest in digital creativity with her passion for accessibility. She wants to create websites, apps, and other digital products that are intuitive, inclusive, and accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities.

Diagnosed prenatally with congenital hydrocephalus related to spina bifida, Harper received her first ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt at two weeks old and underwent two revision surgeries during infancy. Hydrocephalus has affected her vision, eye-hand coordination, mobility, and has contributed to medical anxiety following numerous surgeries, tests, and procedures. She has learned to adapt, advocate for herself, and develop strategies that support her independence and academic success. “Despite having hydrocephalus, I know I will continue to be successful at college and in my career,” she affirms.

Outside of school, Harper is deeply involved in writing, theatre, and disability advocacy. She began a disability advocacy blog at age 11 and has continued to speak and write about inclusion through social media, events, and organizations such as Miss Amazing. In high school, she served as News Editor and Chief Copy Editor of her student newspaper and was active in theatre, particularly sound design and technical production. She has also volunteered through her church, school, theatre department, and local community organizations.

Morgan Clark

Recipient of the Lynette Tenaglia Memorial Scholarship

Morgan is pursuing a degree in Psychology through Los Angeles Valley College, with plans to transfer to the University of California, Irvine. Her interest in psychology grew from years of working with neurodiverse children, children who have experienced trauma, and students with developmental and behavioral differences. Along the way, she developed a passion for helping children feel understood as individuals and supporting their self-esteem, independence, and personal growth. Morgan considers herself a lifelong learner and envisions continuing her education through a doctoral degree and eventually creating a practice where children with disabilities and developmental differences feel safe, accepted, and empowered.

After Morgan first started college, severe headaches, pressure, blurred vision, and other neurological symptoms interrupted her studies, and ultimately that led to an emergency shunt placement. The prolonged pressure damaged her optic nerves, and although follow-up surgeries restored some vision, she remains legally blind and lacks depth perception. The ordeal also brought considerable anxiety and uncertainty, and Morgan spent years away from school before deciding to return and continue pursuing her aspirations. She adds, “I know I can make my dreams come true no matter what the obstacle, because I’ve already accomplished so much.” Living with hydrocephalus has also shaped her desire to one day support children facing similar diagnoses, giving them a place to talk about their fears and develop a strong sense of identity beyond their medical condition.

Outside of school, Morgan paints, cooks, sings, reads research studies, spends time with animals, and explores California’s mountains and coastline. Service is also important to her; she volunteers at local synagogue food pantries and offers free childcare to single mothers when she can. The obstacles she’s encountered have strengthened her commitment to helping children and families while continuing to build a life centered on learning, creativity, and service.

Alexander Diamantopoulos

Recipient of the Lynette Tenaglia Memorial Scholarship

Alexander is attending Stockton University, where he is majoring in Accounting with a minor in Information Systems. He has maintained a strong academic record, making the Dean’s List both semesters and receiving an invitation to join Alpha Lambda Delta. His interests in finance, economics, data analysis, and policy are guiding him toward a career in finance, consulting, or economic research before eventually contributing to the improvement of larger systems and institutions. Alexander is especially interested in how responsible decision-making, access, and resource allocation can shape outcomes in areas such as healthcare and finance.

After persistent migraines led to the discovery of a brain tumor and severe hydrocephalus, Alexander underwent emergency, life-saving surgery followed by two additional surgeries at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. He spent nearly a month in the ICU and experienced complications including brain swelling, infection, temporary blindness, and significant physical and cognitive challenges. His recovery interrupted the academic path he had worked hard to build, but he remained committed to his education and continued performing at a high level. “While the challenges have been significant, they have also strengthened my resilience, deepened my perspective, and clarified my sense of purpose,” he states. What he has been through has also influenced how he thinks about healthcare systems, access to expertise, and the importance of sound decision-making.

Outside of academics, Alexander plays acoustic and electric guitar and solves complex Rubik’s cubes. During his recovery, both became meaningful ways for him to rebuild focus, problem-solving skills, and confidence. He has also volunteered with David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation, supporting families in New Jersey affected by cancer. After becoming a patient himself, that service took on deeper meaning and strengthened his empathy for individuals and families navigating serious medical diagnoses.

Nariah Flores

Recipient of the Anthony Abbene Scholarship

Nariah is working toward a bachelor’s degree in Art at ArtCenter College of Design, where she is developing the technical skills, creative problem-solving abilities, and professional discipline needed for a career in visual arts and creative production. Art has been a central part of her life for as long as she can remember, shaping how she thinks, communicates, and understands the world around her. She looks forward to contributing to meaningful, ambitious projects while continuing to grow in areas such as concept development, visual storytelling, collaboration, and production.

Following a head injury in infancy, Nariah developed acquired hydrocephalus and received a shunt. She has been fortunate to avoid repeated surgeries and ongoing medical complications. Even so, hydrocephalus has had a lasting influence on how she approaches her health, education, and future. Growing up with an awareness of what she had overcome encouraged her to value her opportunities, work diligently toward her goals, and develop a strong sense of empathy for others facing medical challenges. “Rather than being driven by fear, I am motivated by gratitude and purpose,” she explains.

Outside of her studies, Nariah values time with family, learning new skills, sketching, studying visual storytelling, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life. She has also grown up deeply connected to the hydrocephalus community through the WALK to End Hydrocephalus, which she has attended every year since childhood. Today, Nariah serves as the WALK Co-chair volunteer alongside her mother, helping support the event and families navigating hydrocephalus. She looks forward to continuing her advocacy and awareness efforts while using her creative work as another way to reflect empathy, visibility, and possibility.

Tayla Gassman

Recipient of the Morris L. and Rebecca Ziskind Memorial Scholarship

Tayla is a student at the University of Michigan at Flint with the intent to transfer to the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor or Dearborn to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management. Looking ahead, she is committed to building a career that expands opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in adaptive sports. Introduced to adaptive sports at a young age, she has experienced firsthand the confidence, independence, and community they can provide. She sees her education as a way to create more opportunities for adaptive athletes.

Tayla has spina bifida and congenital hydrocephalus and is treated with a shunt. She has navigated mobility challenges, executive functioning difficulties, chronic migraines, chronic pain, and other medical needs. She is an ambulatory wheelchair user and wears braces to support her legs and ankles. Rather than viewing disability only through the challenges it presents, Tayla emphasizes the empathy, adaptability, research skills, and determination she has gained from learning and navigating the world differently. “Our life experiences make us who we are, and what we choose to do with the things we have learned and skills we have gained along the way is up to us as individuals,” she reflects.

Tayla is a seven-sport adaptive athlete in track and field, powerlifting, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair softball, taekwondo, dance, and horseback riding, competing at the international, national, and state levels. For the past four years, she has volunteered as a coach for two younger wheelchair basketball teams at Courage Kenny and has also supported wheelchair softball and adaptive sports camps, where she often connects with other athletes living with hydrocephalus. Outside of sports, Tayla is studying American Sign Language and spends time fishing, reading, doing puzzles, diamond art, traveling, and learning about one of her favorite animals: hippos.

Griffin Glenn

Recipient of the Gerard Swartz Fudge Memorial Scholarship

Griffin is studying business at Waubonsee Community College and continues to play baseball. He intends to earn a college degree, compete as a collegiate pitcher, and build a future grounded in leadership, service, and responsibility. Baseball has taught him patience, accountability, teamwork, and how to respond when things do not go as planned, and he is eager to carry those lessons into his education and eventual career.

Before Griffin was born, doctors discovered he had congenital hydrocephalus caused by aqueductal stenosis. He is treated with a shunt and has undergone multiple brain surgeries because of shunt malfunctions and infections. Early in life, doctors warned his family that he might never walk, talk, or live independently, but he continued reaching milestones and eventually found his place on the baseball field. Hospital stays and recovery periods sometimes caused him to fall behind in school, but those setbacks strengthened his perseverance, self-advocacy, gratitude, and ability to manage uncertainty. “Strength is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to move forward despite it,” he shares.

Baseball remains a central part of Griffin’s life. He plays primarily as a pitcher and also contributes in the outfield, while strength training and conditioning help him stay focused and disciplined. Griffin is open about his hydrocephalus with teammates and peers and uses his story to encourage others facing medical challenges. He has also been a part of the Chicago WALK to End Hydrocephalus and volunteers through Feed My Starving Children, Operation Christmas Child, and community cleanup projects at Dickson Valley Camp.

Lacey Graham

Recipient of the Lynette Tenaglia Memorial Scholarship

Lacey is working toward a bachelor’s degree in Nursing at the University of Arizona with the goal of becoming a NICU or pediatric nurse. Her interest in healthcare is deeply personal, shaped by the doctors and nurses who cared for her throughout childhood. She has also sought out opportunities to serve in senior living facilities, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. That work reinforced her belief that good healthcare is about caring for the whole person. Lacey is determined to provide the same compassion, reassurance, and patient-centered care that made such a difference in her own life.

Born prematurely at just over two pounds, Lacey developed congenital hydrocephalus at five days old and was initially treated with a shunt. Her hydrocephalus is now managed with an endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV). Much of her early life included specialist appointments, therapies, and multiple brain surgeries, including a shunt revision in fourth grade. While recovering in the hospital, she received a stack of supportive cards from her classmates, an experience that helped her see the importance of kindness, connection, and advocacy during difficult medical moments. She says, “I hope that one day, a child or parent will look back on a difficult hospital experience and remember me as someone who made them feel safe, heard, and cared for.”

Outside of school, Lacey stays active through school and travel softball, where she plays catcher, as well as girls flag football. Sports have strengthened her leadership, communication, teamwork, and ability to stay calm under pressure. She also devotes time to working with seniors, caring for animals, and giving back through service. Lacey has taken part in the annual WALK to End Hydrocephalus in Charlotte, North Carolina, and has shared her firsthand knowledge to educate classmates about hydrocephalus, helping build greater understanding and empathy.

Samuel Hicks

Recipient of the Gerard Swartz Fudge Memorial Scholarship

Samuel is enrolled at Oklahoma Baptist University, where he is majoring in Music Education with an instrumental focus. Music has long been central to his life, and he has played guitar for nine years. He also teaches private guitar, ukulele, and bass lessons to students ages 7 to 75 and works as an apprentice luthier, repairing and maintaining instruments. At OBU, Samuel will continue developing his musicianship as a member of the marching band, choir, men’s glee club, and instrumental ensemble. He is determined to become a music educator who helps students build confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging through music.

An arachnoid cyst caused Samuel’s congenital hydrocephalus, which is treated with a shunt. Hydrocephalus and resulting brain injury have affected his processing speed and working memory, making some academic tasks, multi-step directions, and timed work especially challenging. He has also undergone brain and abdominal surgeries and experienced shunt complications. Over time, Samuel has learned to advocate for himself, recognize when he needs support, and focus on his strengths rather than measuring himself against others. “My challenges don’t cancel out my abilities—they just make my path different,” he emphasizes. His determination has contributed to accomplishments including the 2026 Oklahoma Education Excellence Award for Vocal Music, a place in the OBU Marching Band playing bass guitar, and a talent competition win at Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

Giving back is also important to Samuel. He founded an after-school Guitar Club where he provides free lessons to students ages 8–13, helping secure instruments and grant funding so students could join. He has also volunteered for years with Girls on the Run of Southern Oklahoma. Through the program, Samuel formed a special connection with a younger participant who also has a shunt, becoming her self-described “shunt buddy.” During one 5K, when both were experiencing headaches, he encouraged her to listen to her body, take breaks, and redefine success as continuing forward at her own pace. Samuel also volunteers at community events in Springer and uses music as another way to give back.

Emery Jones

Recipient of the Morris L. and Rebecca Ziskind Memorial Scholarship

Emery is obtaining an associate degree in Education at Collin College, with the goal of becoming a band director. Inspired by the teachers and band directors who have supported her, she plans to begin as a middle school director and eventually lead a high school band program in Texas. Emery wants to create a classroom culture built on safety, honesty, acceptance of mistakes, and encouragement, where students can grow in confidence and feel supported both as musicians and as individuals.

Emery’s congenital hydrocephalus, resulting from aqueductal stenosis, was discovered in infancy. She received a VP shunt at four months old. She later experienced cellulitis involving her shunt tubing that required hospitalizations. She has also navigated migraines, pressure-related symptoms, and anxiety surrounding medical imaging and care. Hydrocephalus has sometimes affected her education and participation in activities, requiring her to balance pain, appointments, and missed instructional time. She describes a shift in how she views hydrocephalus: “Growing up, hydrocephalus meant being different from everyone and limitation, but now it means more opportunities to help others and to embrace who I am.” Her experiences have taught her patience, self-advocacy, compassion, and greater awareness of challenges that may not always be visible.

Music has been a major part of Emery’s life for years. She has spent seven years in band, plays clarinet, and has also explored music through singing and dance. Outside of music, she enjoys reading, crafting, writing poetry, and baking. Emery has completed more than 200 volunteer hours through her school’s band program, helping with concerts, competitions, fundraising, and football games. She also attended a WALK to End Hydrocephalus as a child, an experience she remembers as helping her feel less alone.

Samuel Kitchen

Recipient of the Anthony Abbene Memorial Scholarship

Samuel is a student at Brigham Young University, where he is majoring in biochemistry. Building on his passion for science and research, he aspires to become a research professor and eventually study ethnobotany, exploring plant-based solutions to antimicrobial resistance and chronic illnesses. Samuel has already gained hands-on research experience through a chemistry internship at Contec Incorporated, where he worked with laboratory instruments and techniques including FTIR, ion chromatography, and titrations. He aims to continue developing his scientific knowledge in college before pursuing graduate study focused on ethnobotanical research.

Samuel’s congenital hydrocephalus is caused by Dandy-Walker malformation. Treated with a VP shunt since infancy, he has undergone 10 brain surgeries involving shunt placement or revision. At times, increased intracranial pressure (ICP) has affected his vision, including an episode of temporary blindness in childhood, and repeated surgeries have contributed to lasting fine motor challenges that require accommodations for writing and testing. Living with the unpredictability of hydrocephalus has also affected him emotionally, but it has strengthened his desire to understand his conditions through science. “While there have been moments of hopelessness and limitation, they have shaped my understanding of resilience and self-awareness,” he recalls.

Outside of academics, Samuel describes himself as a science communicator and knowledge-sharer. He is a state Envirothon champion and international competitor, has served as a Youth in Government Senator, and was an inaugural TEDxFiveForks Youth speaker, where he discussed chronic illness, Dandy-Walker, and the idea that “knowledge is comfort.” He is also active in theatre, Poetry Out Loud, Ethics Bowl, and vocal music, and has held leadership roles in his school’s drama program. Samuel founded a nonprofit tutoring business and also volunteers as an SAT Reading and Writing tutor for students internationally, combining his love of learning with his desire to help others better understand challenging concepts.

Dani Lucchese

Recipient of the Mario J. Tocco Hydrocephalus Foundation Scholarship

Dani is a doctoral candidate in Higher Education at the University of Arizona’s Center for the Study of Higher Education, where they are in the dissertation stage of their PhD program. Their research focuses on disabled college students and how higher education can become more accessible and equitable for multiply marginalized disabled students. After completing their doctorate, Dani would like to establish a community-based Disability Cultural Center that offers resources related to education, employment, job training, advocacy, disability culture, identity, and disability justice. They envision a space where disabled people can access practical support while also building community and celebrating disability identity.

Dani’s congenital hydrocephalus was found in infancy, and they were treated with a shunt. Their experiences with disability have significantly shaped their educational path. Their visual impairment was initially perceived as a learning disability, leading to placement in special education. In third grade, after losing use of their left arm and hand and missing class for occupational therapy, Dani struggled academically without the accommodations they needed and was told they could not “handle” the workload. Looking back, Dani recognized, “I was missing critical supports that the school failed to put in place.” With support from educators later in their schooling, they transitioned into general education, a shift that ultimately inspired their commitment to improving access to higher education for other disabled students.

Dani has also become deeply involved in the HA community. They went to their first National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT, in 2022 and returned in 2024. They were active in the Community Network for adults in their 20s and helped advocate for the creation of a separate network for adults in their 30s. Dani went on to serve as one of the inaugural leaders of that group, helping create a space where adults with hydrocephalus could connect around shared experiences and life stages. Outside of their academic and advocacy work, Dani enjoys spending time with their dogs, performing and watching stand-up and improv comedy, reading, tarot, Zumba, and video games.

Lillian Lyons

Recipient of the Jacobsen Family Scholarship

Lillian is completing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of Denver, with plans to continue into a clinical doctoral program focused on child psychology. Her journey growing up with hydrocephalus sparked an interest in the emotional and cognitive effects of complex medical conditions and inspired her dream of becoming a pediatric psychologist. Through coaching, nannying, and volunteering with children with disabilities, Lillian has seen how encouragement, inclusion, and individualized support can strengthen a child’s confidence and well-being. She wants to work with children who have hydrocephalus and other medical conditions, helping them manage pain, cope with emotional stress, and feel supported throughout treatment.

Doctors discovered Lillian’s congenital hydrocephalus before she was born. She spent her earliest days undergoing tests and scans and eventually required surgery as a child. Her neurosurgeon performed a fenestration to allow cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to drain, and the procedure has continued to function successfully. Growing up, Lillian faced difficulties with fine motor and tactile skills, spatial awareness, and light sensitivity, requiring therapy and ongoing practice. In Lillian’s words, “Learning to adapt to my physical and cognitive differences taught me resilience, problem-solving, and perseverance.” She also learned the importance of strong support systems, which gave her a personal understanding of the emotional and social challenges children can face while navigating medical care.

Outside of academics, Lillian is active in music, athletics, leadership, and community service. She is a lead violinist with All-Region recognition and has competed in golf at the state level, including serving as captain of her varsity team. Through organizations such as First Tee Northwest Arkansas, Special Olympics, 99 Balloons, and Bulldog Buddies, she has mentored young people and helped create inclusive opportunities for children with disabilities. At 99 Balloons’ respite nights, Lillian helped provide a welcoming environment where children with complex needs could build friendships and confidence while their family received time to rest. All of this has strengthened her commitment to making children feel valued, understood, and capable beyond their diagnoses.

Zachary Moland

Recipient of the Logan Aamot Memorial Scholarship

Zachary attends the Honors College at the University of Oklahoma, where he focuses on Journalism. With strong interests in writing, current events, and sports, he is eager to build his reporting skills through the OU Daily and other campus news organizations, covering areas such as sports, politics, and crime. He also intends to seek internships while in college and ultimately become a sports analyst at the collegiate or professional level. Covering sports for his high school newspaper and working with the Frisco ISD Sports Broadcasting Club has already helped him build skills in reporting, communication, statistics, and quick decision-making.

Born with congenital hydrocephalus caused by aqueductal stenosis, Zachary is treated with a shunt and has undergone multiple surgeries, including life-saving surgery shortly after birth. Hydrocephalus has affected his coordination and spatial navigation and has required years of physical therapy and strong self-advocacy. He has also had to navigate restrictions related to contact sports, magnets, and metal detectors because of his shunt. Despite these challenges, Zachary has remained determined to pursue his goals. “I have never let any of the challenges I just described hold me back before, so why start now?” he asks.

Zachary has also been involved with HA from a young age, joining his family at the WALK to End Hydrocephalus in Southern California. Although he was young at the time, he remembers the strong sense of community and support surrounding people affected by hydrocephalus. Outside of academics, Zachary loves listening to country and rock music, reading and writing mystery, thriller, action, and horror stories, and following college football. A third-generation Eagle Scout, he has also dedicated time to community service, including organizing an Eagle Scout clothing drive that collected more than 750 items for families in need.

Nadeen Morsi

Recipient of the Lynette Tenaglia Memorial Scholarship

Nadeen is currently taking coursework at Mesa College and completing additional medical training as she prepares for medical school. She previously earned a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from UC Irvine and an M.S. in Bioengineering with a specialization in medicine from UC San Diego. Her long-term goal is to become a physician-scientist specializing in radiology, particularly neuroradiology, where she can combine patient care, imaging, and research. Her academic work has included hydrocephalus-focused research, including a project involving the design of future clinical trials for SPAK-Rx, a preclinical therapy being studied for its potential to reduce cerebrospinal fluid production. Nadeen seeks to contribute to research that improves diagnostic accuracy, treatment options, and long-term outcomes for people with hydrocephalus.

Nadeen was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at age 19 during her sophomore year at UC Irvine after six months of worsening headaches, brain fog, nausea, lightheadedness, and other symptoms that had repeatedly been attributed to migraines. An MRI ultimately revealed hydrocephalus, leading to emergency shunt surgery and four weeks away from school. Her recovery was complicated by overdrainage that caused her ventricles to collapse, repeated shunt-setting adjustments, ongoing symptoms, and eventually a shunt revision. While navigating these challenges, Nadeen completed a demanding engineering curriculum and graduated with her bachelor’s degree a year early at age 20 before continuing into graduate study. “Living with hydrocephalus has taught me perseverance, resilience, and self-advocacy,” she says.

Nadeen stays connected with the HA through its newsletter and had registered for the Orange County WALK to End Hydrocephalus at Huntington Beach, though symptoms prevented her from attending. She looks forward to participating in a future WALK to End Hydrocephalus and supporting efforts to improve awareness, research, and care for people living with hydrocephalus. Outside of academics, Nadeen likes reading, playing piano, and staying active through weekly hikes, adapting her activities as needed to accommodate her health. She also draws from her experiences to advocate for greater understanding of hydrocephalus and aims to support patients both as a clinician and researcher.

Kimberly Ortiz

Recipient of the Justin Scot Alston Memorial Scholarship

Kimberly is attending Southwestern Oklahoma State University to pursue a doctorate in Community Health with a focus on Healthcare Leadership and Entrepreneurship. After receiving her Master of Public Health, she is furthering her education with a focus on improving healthcare accessibility, patient advocacy, and long-term support for people living with chronic conditions. She envisions helping shape healthcare programs and policies that meaningfully incorporate patients’ lived experiences.

Kimberly was diagnosed in infancy with posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus of prematurity following a hemorrhage and is treated with a shunt. Growing up with medical appointments, scans, headaches, fatigue, and the need to monitor her shunt required her to develop strong self-advocacy skills at a young age. She also has cerebral palsy (CP) and has learned to recognize her physical limits while remaining determined to achieve what matters to her. Kimberly states, “Living with hydrocephalus has not limited me—it has strengthened me.”

Kimberly’s community involvement centers heavily on public health and disability inclusion. She has attended the Living with Hydrocephalus Education Day at Children’s National Hospital, led advocacy campaigns through Truth Initiative, and served as Health Program Manager for Special Olympics District of Columbia. She draws on what she has learned firsthand to support families facing new hydrocephalus diagnoses and is committed to combining advocacy, healthcare improvement, and mentorship.

Macie Randol

Recipient of the Kate Finlayson Memorial Scholarship

Macie is earning a Master of Nursing degree at the University of Texas at Arlington to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. She works full-time in pediatric primary care serving foster children, including many with chronic illnesses, developmental delays, neurological conditions, and other complex medical needs. Her journey has shown her the importance of continuity of care, coordination across medical and social systems, and providers who listen closely to children and families. In the long term, Macie would like to develop a specialized model of care that combines primary care, chronic disease management, and trauma-informed support for medically complex foster children, with the eventual goal of establishing a small, medically supported shelter.

Macie was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at age 19 after five years of daily headaches and extreme fatigue that had been attributed to migraines. Even after imaging revealed fluid on her brain, she spent several more years without definitive treatment while continuing through nursing school and beginning her career as a registered nurse. At age 23, further testing showed that she would benefit from a VP shunt. Recovery was long and difficult, involving frequent shunt adjustments, overdrainage, chronic pain, and other secondary health complications. Over time, her health gradually stabilized, and the challenges she faced reinforced the importance of being heard and believed by healthcare providers. Macie says hydrocephalus has given her “purpose, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to serve others living with complex and misunderstood conditions.”

Macie also gives back to the hydrocephalus community through online support groups, where she offers encouragement to individuals and families navigating new diagnoses, and HA fundraisers during Hydrocephalus Awareness Month. As a pediatric nurse, she once supported a teenager preparing for shunt surgery by answering questions, sharing her own experience, and helping the family feel less afraid. In her current work, she educates foster caregivers and shelter staff about hydrocephalus, VP shunts, and warning signs that may require medical attention. Macie has also contributed to HA fundraisers and volunteers extensively with foster children, church youth programs, community outreach, and children’s bereavement programs.

Baily Sanders

Recipient of the Lynette Tenaglia Memorial Scholarship

Baily is studying for a bachelor’s degree in Nursing at Brigham Young University. Her interest in healthcare grew directly from her time as a patient and the support she received from nurses and physicians during hospital stays and surgeries. At Esperanza High School, she completed a four-year Medical Science Academy pathway that gave her training in clinical skills, CPR, a medical externship, and preparation for a Medical Assistant license. She also worked at Partridge Optometry, where she assisted patients, operated diagnostic equipment, and explained how retinal imaging played a role in the discovery of her hydrocephalus. Baily’s dream is to become a nurse who provides compassionate, high-quality care to patients facing complex medical challenges.

Diagnosed with congenital hydrocephalus caused by aqueductal stenosis at age 13, Baily has undergone five brain surgeries and is treated with both a shunt and ETV. Her condition disrupted school, friendships, and soccer at different points, and severe headaches sometimes kept her out of class for extended periods. Along the way, Baily learned to communicate with teachers, ask for help, stay organized, and better understand her own limits. Returning to soccer after surgery also taught her patience and determination as she worked to rebuild her strength. “I realized that success isn’t about flawlessness; it is about perseverance,” she reflects.

Baily has also become actively involved in the hydrocephalus community through awareness, research, and mentoring. She has also taken part in shunt-flow studies with Rhaeos, distributed blue ribbons during Hydrocephalus Awareness Month, attended the WALK to End Hydrocephalus and the National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT, and connected with other teens living with hydrocephalus. One especially meaningful experience has been mentoring a younger girl who has undergone multiple brain surgeries; the two now call themselves “Shunt Buddies.” Outside of hydrocephalus advocacy, Baily has volunteered at a girls’ youth camp and helped create “Joy Jars” for children with cancer through the Jessie Rees Foundation. She intends to continue combining nursing with advocacy, education, and support for patients and families affected by hydrocephalus.

Dylan Webster

Recipient of the Baldus Family Scholarship in Memory of Gerard Swartz Fudge

Dylan is pursuing a doctoral degree in Information Technology at Capella University and is currently writing his dissertation, Predictors of Electronic Health Record Adoption in the United States. Drawing on approximately three years of experience in rural healthcare, he is especially interested in the technology gaps that can make care less efficient in underserved communities. His research focuses on electronic health record adoption, interoperability, and API integration, with particular attention to rural institutions that may lack access to modern systems. Dylan sees his background in healthcare technology as a way to help modernize the way information is shared across medical systems and improve the patient experience.

Born with congenital hydrocephalus caused by aqueductal stenosis and treated with a shunt, Dylan has navigated physical, social, and emotional challenges related to his condition throughout his life. He has described difficulties with mobility, coordination, driving, and feeling different from peers, as well as periods in adolescence and early adulthood when he struggled with depression and withdrew socially. Over time, Dylan rebuilt his confidence, returned to higher education, established a career, and developed greater independence. “I do try to count my fortunes though, and recognize the achievement that my ability to live completely independently despite my diagnosis really is,” he shares.

Dylan is also active in the hydrocephalus community as a Georgia Community Network Co-Leader for HA. He has helped lead recurring virtual meetings and participated in the 2024 National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT, in Tampa as a co-leader of the Making Connections: Adults in their 20s group. At the National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT, Dylan also volunteered at information tables and supported participants who needed assistance navigating social activities. Outside of work and academics, Dylan spends time playing pickleball, bowling, and coding personal apps, including one he created to help track his progress and reflections during therapy.

Congratulations to all of our Awardees and Finalists!

You inspire us all!

Eliana Aguilera	Caitlyn Camp	Antonia (Annie) Kuefler	Cheryl Saha
Mariam Ahmed	Gracie Camp	Emma Landis	Uttara Sarma
Nicolas Andrade	Awilda Carter	Chad Lickfelt	Emerson Sarre
Rafaelo Aquino	Kieran Conlon	Sophie Lucas	Barbara Schavland
Samera Austin	Cristina Costa	James Mason	Gretchen Schultz
Noah Baird	Gianna Drago	Peter Mascari	Alia Smith
Parker Berhorst	Amelia Feathers	Lainey Massey	Nancy Soto
O’Hara Black	Aidan Hahka	Molly McDonald	Aubrey Thrasher
Faith Brown	Allison Hernandez	Kadama Mckenzie Greene	Noah Vick
Ava Brewer	Addison Himebaugh	Breanna Nash	Tameira Williams
Kennedi Buchmyer	Joseph Jahns	Bryson Pacitti	Jennifer Wilson
Daytona Burr	Griffin Jones	Gabrielle Romig	Finn Withrow