#MataioIsaiah is the son of Lt. Aaron and Taimane Lozada. Mataio is 9 years old and has battled a rare disease since birth called Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI).
Mataio has broken over 67 bones in his lifetime. This long list includes his arms, legs, ribs, fingers, toes, skull fractures and over 10 compression fractures in his back. In the middle of February this year, he broke his femur, causing him to be confined to a wheelchair for a long period of time. While confined to his wheelchair, Mataio suffered two additional compression fractures in his lower back. His Doctors believe these fractures were likely caused by his own body weight from having to sit too long. Mataio may have brittle bones, but he has a tough heart. He doesn't let his disease get in the way of his living life. His hobbies are reading Harry Potter, doing science projects, listening to music, dancing and playing video games. Mataio is an OI Warrior! Send him a message >
Over the years it has become clear that physical activity is an important part of managing OI in both children and adults. Land-based physical activity like running and playing put extra stress on Mataio's bones and he often breaks from minor falls attributed to physical activity. Numerous doctors and therapists have recommended that Mataio spend as much time doing water-based activities to help strengthen his muscles without the stress on his brittle bones. He is currently undergoing aqua therapy and says being submerged in water is one of the only times he feels no pain...
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"Children with OI can excel in the water, particularly if it is presented as an opportunity for recreation and independent exploration, rather than a situation where an adult places demands on the child to exercise."
-oif.org
A MESSAGE FROM HIS FRIENDS
We are asking for you to help Mataio with his battle. #OISucks, but your donations* can help with the long term rehabilitation expenses that will continue to accrue from this non-curable disease.
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Our goal is to assist Mataio's family in their purchase of a Hydropool Swim Spa. This special therapy pool gives him the opportunity to independently continue his aqua strengthening along with getting the exercise and playtime that a young boy needs. The purchase price of the pool alone came with a heafty price tag of $48,000. This does not include the ongoing upkeep and maintenance or additional therapy sessions, all expenses that insurance doesn't cover.
The Lozada's little OI Warrior is full of strength, courage and resilience because of their unconditional love and support. They show this same love and support for each and every person that touches their lives. This family couldn't be more deserving of our help. Every donation will assist Mataio with his quality of life and will be seen as a generous gift.