Xtraordinary Individuals

Share your story! Who is an Xtraordinary Individual in your life? It could be a teacher, sibling, or someone living with Fragile X. We share these stories on social media to inspire the community and help raise awareness for Fragile X. There are Xtraordinary Individuals everywhere.

Nominate your Xtraordinary Individual

Xtraordinary Stories

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Ted & Matthew were nominated by their parents, the McGuinness's

What makes Ted & Matthew Xtraordinary to you?

They have the most fabulous lives, amazing sense of humour and are also both so sociable and funny and caring!

Special Facts:

  • Ted loves farming and all farm machinery.
  • Matthew loves cars and all things mechanics.
  • They are both excellent swimmers!

How has the NFXF helped you or Ted & Matthew?

We can share our experiences with other families with pride, and therefore, we are not alone in our challenges or in our victories.

John was nominated by his mother, Melita Jones

What makes John Xtraordinary to you?

John is an amazing son and brother to his four other siblings. His empathy and love for his family are unique. We love watching him grow and develop.

Special Facts:

  • John loves Air Dancers (a.k.a. Balloon guy).
  • He loves animals.
  • He loves matchbox cars, and cheese pizza. Plain cheese pizza ;).

How has the NFXF helped you or John?

Reading ongoing studies and seeing other families. I hope to go to a function of Fragile X. We need to support each other.

Carlyn was nominated by her sister, Chelsey Franz

What makes Carlyn Xtraordinary to you?

Carlyn is an overcomer. She’s the hardest worker I know and (*almost*) never complains. She’s funny, kind, compassionate, and loves her people. When she knows I’ve had a hard day, she texts me to check in. Everyone should have someone like Carlyn in their life.

Special Facts

  • Carlyn represented Arkansas in the Miss Amazing pageant series in 2019.
  • Carlyn loves to play Just Dance for exercise.
  • Carlyn was recently selected to represent Arkansas’ Special Olympic swim team. Her times are consistent with S.O. World Gold Medal winners.

How has the NFXF helped you or Carlyn?

NFXF has helped connect Carlyn with research opportunities and specialty care. We are so grateful for the organization and the support they provide the Fragile X community.

Davis was nominated by his mother, Igrainne Parrish

What Makes Davis Xtraordinary to You?

Davis is the light of our lives! He always makes us smile! He loves to sing on microphones and play with inflatables. He keeps us laughing and is always sweet, kind, and caring.

Special Facts:

  • Davis’s favorite color is blue.
  • His favorite food is chicken and French fries.
  • He loves to ride his bike!

How has the NFXF helped you or Davis?

You all have helped us stay connected with the latest updates to FX medicine and given us a community to be a part of.

Jayden was nominated by his mother, Vanessa Graves

What makes Jayden Xtraordinary to you?

He’s one of the most amazing little boys. With the help of his school, he has come such a long way. Even though heʼs nonverbal, you know exactly what he’s trying to say. He is so goofy and tries to be sneaky.

Special Facts:

  • His favorite color and foods are red.
  • His favorite animals are ducks (quack is one of the few words he says).
  • Absolutely loves school.
Daryl was nominated by his mother, Vanessa Graves

What makes Daryl Xtraordinary to you?

He’s the sweetest little boy. He faces a lot of medical issues. He has come so far. He talks more and more every day, tries to interact with other kids, and is starting to be more independent. I couldn’t be prouder of this little guy.

Special Facts:

  • He does not like animals.
  • He loves to play in the water.
  • He’s secretly a cat (loves to sit on baskets or boxes).
  • He has a special blanket he carries around.
  • Likes to hang out in his room and look at books.
Jami was nominated by his mother, Carol Omahen

What makes Jami Xtraordinary to you?

Jami is an easy going guy, who loves to talk to everyone he sees. He also has a strong faith in God, he loves Jesus, and he prays everyday. His favorite color is purple, favorite food is pizza. Loves watching sports, and westerns on TV, going to camp, and he also likes to sing with a microphone. He has a wonderful smile that lights up my heart.

Zachary was nominated by his mother, Nicole Simmons

What makes Zachary Xtraordinary to you?

Zachary loves like no other. His smile and hugs can turn a bad day good. He amazes me each and every day with the things he can do.

Special Facts:

  • Zachary loved Kid Rock and playing video games.
  • He loves the color orange.
  • His favorite food is cheeseburgers.
Joseph was nominated by his mother, Jessica Getridge

What makes Joseph Xtraordinary to you?

Joseph is a very loving and happy boy! He’s never sad, always smiling! Joseph faces some challenges, like not walking by himself, but we work with him every day. He doesn’t let that stop him from getting from one place to another!

Special Facts:

  • Joseph loves anything food!
  • He never passes anything down.
  • He’s a loving little boy and he’s always smiling.
  • He loves watching Bluey and he loves playing with his sister and brother!!
Preston was nominated by his parents Karina & Boris

What makes Preston Xtraordinary to you?

Preston is truly one of the kindest souls you’ll ever meet. He’s the type of kid who would give up all his favorite things just to see someone else smile. He has a heart of gold and a natural gift for bringing joy to others. Whether he’s organizing, tidying up, or simply being himself, Preston has a way of turning even the gloomiest day around. His kindness and light are simply unforgettable.

Special Facts:

  • Preston loves sushi, taking long car rides and people watching.