Technology Helps Young Girl With SMA Experience Preschool From Home

Three-year-old Addilynne Shirey from Lakewood, Ohio loves preschool but has to be extra careful during the winter months to not catch colds and flus from the other students. These illnesses could be fatal since Addilynne has type 1 spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

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According to an interview with her mother Amanda Shirey on Fox8.com, SMA affects the way Addilynne swallows and breathes so chest infections or viruses could have deadly repercussions.  However, thanks to modern technology, Addilynne doesn’t have to miss out on preschool anymore.

The school provided the family with a Vgo Robot which allows Addilynne to participate in classes online, as well as communication with her teachers and friends in real time, so she can still feel like she’s part of the class. Find out more about this story here.

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SMA News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.