The Weller Family

Amelia Weller was just four months old when her medical complexity journey began.

After concerns were raised at a well-child check, Amelia was diagnosed with hydrocephaly. Two months after that life-changing appointment, Amelia had her first brain shunt placed. Now almost five years old, Amelia has endured 15 brain surgeries and endless other medical hardships throughout her lifetime. In addition to Hydrocephaly, Amelia has been diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, intestinal failure, dysautonomia, Eosinophilic Esophagitis, hypoglycemia and is dependent on IV nutrition.

Amelia’s mom, Chelsea Weller, shares: “Our lives have revolved around doctor

appointments, therapy sessions, and hospital stays. Due to her risk of sepsis, any fever over 100°

results in an immediate hospital admission. This has had a significant impact on our family,

especially over the past year, with her siblings missing events due to hospital stays as well. Over the past several years, we’ve all had to adjust to this new normal.” Throughout this family’s

challenging journey, Wichita’s Littlest Heroes (WLH) has been an irreplaceable network of

support.

One of the ways WLH has supported the Weller family is through the power of

relationships and connection. “We’ve connected and met with several families over the years

who have been our biggest supporters and helped us through trying times.” Chelsea shared. “Bri (director of WLH) and her hospital visits always make Amelia so happy as well. The family

events always get us away from the medical life and offer something fun, while also being

surrounded by those who truly understand us.” Chelsea went on to share how even those around the Weller family can see the impact of WLH. “Our extended family has witnessed the impact

WLH has had on us and has helped spread the word about this amazing organization.”

When it comes to journeys like little Amelia’s, families desperately need dependable help

and support to remind them they are not alone in the fight. WLH excels at providing this for the

families they surround. “We are so thankful for the lifelong friends and support we’ve amassed

over the last several years. Our health journey would be a lot more strenuous without WLH and

all the amazing support they have offered us through the last four years.” Chelsea said. “Between financial support, events, and just overall support, it would be hard to imagine how we would have done things without them.”