Living with Severe Brain Damage (Caused by Meningitis)

Xoey acquired meningitis in her first few days of life which resulted in global brain damage. She was not expected to survive the week, but is now 6 years old and surrounded by her family who loves her unconditionally. Xoey's family wants others to know that her life is different, but it can still be a good one.
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[@shadowcat6832]

I really appreciate that the dad was able to be emotional! I feel like lots of men think they shouldn’t be vulnerable in front of their kids because they wanna be strong for them but really, emotional strength is allowing yourself to feel and express your emotions.

[@kristinminiscalco5592]

I totally agree 💯👍

[@Pupflo]

yess it is truly beautiful!! thanks for pointing that out, I was thinking the same thing :)

[@リset]

If you think about it this channel is just milking these families for views though.

[@ananasparachute]

yes! my husband is more outwardly emotional than I am. I appreciate it.

[@m.a.l.e8182]

I'm crying at 43 years old watching this. I was born in Manchester, England, six weeks premature. I had Meningococcal Septicemia when born, and I have no side effects, barring anxiety. My heart goes out to this beautiful girl. ❤👊

[@SassyXR6007]

❤🤜🤛💪👍

[@maryjanedoe]

🫂

[@saileebniss1782]

What a wonderful family

[@Takethetest2115]

Beautiful child. There are Angels surrounding her. ❤❤❤

[@Riz-Khan]

Lucky you. Praise the lord 🙏🏾 Her doctor wanted to tell Mom about the side effects, brain damage and the burden she would bear.

[@BethRazz]

You can tell she's a daddy's girl!! They definitely have a strong bond what a great dad and mom is awesome too. I see children like Xoey as a blessing she lights up a room and makes you wanna be happy along side with her.

[@extracelestial1027]

i came here just to say that! daddy’s girl for sure! ❤

[@RudeBoySka216]

This is a really important KZbin channel, thanks for everything you do Chris.

[@Katriiify]

I agree

[@amyd7794]

This channel has softened me and grown me. So glad for it.

[@mbb--]

Those parents are the BEST sort of human beings.

[@valentinacardona173]

I suffered 3 times from fungal meningitis (brain hemorrhage, brain hernia, 6 brain surgeries due to it ) . Stories like Xoey's make me feel so blessed and lucky to be healthy now with no brain damage and just some neurological sequels .

[@williamppl3624]

bs

[@fatemad4012]

How can anyone prevent this ? Is there vaccine?

[@fatemad4012]

Were you little?

[@d.n.8919]

@@fatemad4012yes, there is a meningitis vaccine as well as boosters for it. I highly recommend it. I got those vaccines after learning how bad meningitis can be.

[@leannemo7382]

@@fatemad4012 No, it’s caused by a fungus. It mainly only infects the immune compromised and pre-mature infants. It’s no longer common in First World countries like the US.

[@theinvertebratequeen]

Bless her heart, she's a beautiful little girl. This interview gets to me on a bit of a personal level - my step-dad had meningitis when he was a baby and it resulted in brain damage too. I remember when my mum first got into a relationship with him, his parents sat my mum down and basically said "look, he had brain damage as a baby, you take him or leave him as he is" because a lot of people had taken advantage of him. Don't get me wrong, he's my stepdad and with that territory comes him annoying me and being almost like a much older brother than a dad lol. However, he does his best and I am grateful. Many people have met him and said they noticed he was "a bit off" as he is completely functioning, he just struggles with certain things. Sometimes people say things to my mum as if to say "he doesn't seem quite right, are you sure about him?" which I can understand because when someone isn't quite the same as the average, it can give people that gut reaction that something isn't right. I learned about that and how mirror neurons (I think that's what they're called) basically tell you if something isn't normal, even if you haven't noticed it yourself yet, and that is what causes that gut feeling about things. Sometimes disability is known to cause those mirror neurons to tell you something is wrong even when it isn't because many people like me who have cognitive disabilities aren't visually different but we act different compared to the average person you might come across. All that yabber aside though, I really want to commend this lady for doing so much for her daughter. Even talking about being given funeral plan ideas for her newborn baby, she speaks about it in a bright tone so that her daughter doesn't get upset hearing her mum upset. That's not easy at all! Speaking about her daughter coming leaps and bounds ahead of what doctors expected is what happened with my stepdad too. They were incredibly worried and he was born in the 60's so you can imagine that healthcare wasn't nearly as great. They essentially told his parents he would never do anything and now he has a full-time job (has done for a good 30+ years), a loving family - in general, a very "normal" life. He does most things your average 56 year old man does, it's really only a few minor things like conversation that he ever needs any help with. I say all this basically so that anyone who reads this who may have a child or know a child with meningitis related brain damage, it doesn't mean it's the end. No amount of brain damage or disability means it's the end. Humans are unbelievably resilient and strong and we see it time and time again on this channel. Don't lose your hope for a happy child - disability doesn't mean that they will suffer 24/7. Things may be harder, yes, but those struggles can make you appreciate what the world around you truly offers. After my massively long comment, I just want to commend this mother again as well as her daughter. Both are fighters and have fought for each other through some of the toughest battles and that's so beautiful, it brings a tear to my eye :)

[@myishacherry7242]

Well I enjoyed your "massively long comment" very much! Beautiful reminder that we are all special & worthy of love no matter what. Much love to you , your step dad mom ,& family❤

[@rebeccacarlson9166]

Wow, I found your comment to be very worth reading! Thank you for sharing all of that personal information. It's good for me to know that love can happen even though a person's functioning ability may be different from surrounding people.

[@theinvertebratequeen]

@@rebeccacarlson9166 Thank you! I didn't realise until I asked my mum but my stepdad actually had the exact same type of meningitis as little Xoey. We always laugh and say my family is full of disability - my step-dad's brain damage, my own autism and my mum's fibromyalgia among other things. In a way, I do wonder if my mum was more open than some other women my step-dad had dated before because of raising me. Having a child with a neurological and developmental disability I would hope made her more empathetic in a way.

[@theinvertebratequeen]

@@myishacherry7242 Thank you! Much love to you as well :)

[@lourdesmercedes1201]

Thank you so much for your amazing comment!

[@TabithaHarnsberger]

These parents are amazing

[@ohhoney777]

The bond between Xoey and her dad is something so beautiful, the way she smiles at him made me cry 🥹❤️

[@sonnybobsquarepants266]

Xoeys’ dad is testiment to the saying “not all superheroes wear capes.” Hello from New Zealand❤️

[@hannahh8696]

She's gorgeous, clearly so happy and loved.

[@issofsar]

You got this moma. Just remember to take breaks and recharge when you need to. Being a full-time caregiver is a big job.❤

[@yuuokami2156]

Don't forget the dad.

[@deanaburnham9571]

And don't forget the sister and grandparents either!! 😊

[@watchthisheadspace]

I think they mean because mum is with her pretty 24/7 and all day whereas other family members have time away working etc

[@GiantPetRat]

Even though Xoey's communication is limited, you can tell that she's a social butterfly and constantly responding to what the people around her are saying. I love her little Wookie noises.

[@StellaDoroBreadstick]

Is anyone else crying happy tears 🥲 What an amazing little girl and she’s fortunate to have such amazing parents!! ❤

[@andrewkolb6309]

That mom rocks she wanted to give her daughter a chance and looks she made it wishing the very best for them! Btw I loved it when she opened up her eyes

[@HeavyMetalNURSE]

I dont know how you would be crying happy tears. As a pediatric nurse to many patients in her exact condition, this is not a happy situation when it comes down to it. Yes she has a loving family but thats it. Love wont make her talk or hold her head up no matter how much therapy she gets. Those are facts.

[@guardianangel9517]

​@@HeavyMetalNURSEYou OBVIOUSLY have no business working with children and their families. Each day they are granted together is a blessing/lesson in what REAL humanity is all about. Sorry.. I hope your broken heart has healing 💙

[@HeavyMetalNURSE]

Just because this is my opinion doesnt mean i am not amazing at what i do. I literally act like a fairy godmother and elsa from frozen at work. You dont know me and would never know i feel this way. I dont need healing. People need to wake up.

[@StellaDoroBreadstick]

@@HeavyMetalNURSE I’m sick and twisted beyotch.

[@MikeF-n8k]

Thank SBSK for people telling true stories ❤

[@melissak.8385]

Wow, she lights up when daddy holds her. Beautiful, and very special family. Lovely, sweet mom.

[@cateknepper184]

God bless this family! This mama holds so much power and pride for her daughter. I wish this sweet girl a long happy life.

[@gryprrs1000]

God bless you both. I lost my nephew to meningitis when he was 11 years old. The doctors gave him a few months, but he lived for 11 years! I pray that you have many more years with Xoey. ❤️❤️❤️

[@PatienceMwansa-b6f]

Being a full-time caregiver is a big job and am glad seeing this bond between Xoey and the Father ❤ I am first time Mommy, My son is 1year 7months, he was born full-term but didn't cry at birth and it led to brain damage. At 6months when the Father noticed that the baby was unable to sit he walked away and left us. now his 1year 7months hasn't gained neck control, unable to sit or crawl i feel drained cause i have to do it by myself am not working and the small business i was doing has gone done. i have been unable to take him for physiotherapy due to lack of money, right now don't even have money to get him food and am trying to sell my phone but people are refusing to buy cause it has a lot of cracks. May God help me 🙏 i feel drained and stressed it's not easy i wish the Father was here with us but he choose to walk away.

[@RobVespa]

Xoey and her family - Their story lifts my heart. This video resonated with me and is quite moving. What a beautiful family. Thank you for sharing... and thank you, Chris and company, for all you do. You're changing the world. From one voice to many. All the best.

[@R3nnyboo]

What a sweet tender family. The tears in their eyes were heavy but the love they have for Xoey is so loud and tender. Beautiful video! 🥹💗

[@jeanniefox3350]

Blessings to grandma and grandpa also, for having an open home for the whole family! To give mom and dad a break when needed, you can feel the love all around. Such a beautiful family, God bless them always!🫶🙏🥰👍👍

[@lovingmayberry307]

Hi Xoey! 👋 What an amazing, loving, supportive family you have! 💜

[@justhewaves]

They seem like incredibly kind, thoughtful, nurturing and loving humans. Xoey is lucky to have them and they're incredibly lucky to have her. What a lovely spirit she has. Thanks for sharing this and I hope this family enjoys a beautiful 2024.

[@loa0ty]

im very sad for kids like this, but at the same time im happy cause they see the world in light!

[@aandrus2169]

Poor sweet Xoey! I am still recovering from viral meningitis months after having it. Xoey's story makes me so very grateful I have had this much recovering and so thankful Xoey has such good support and loving family. She is a real sweetheart, sweet soul. ❤

[@coreshaatkinson8753]

How do you get meningitis? What is the symptoms

[@aandrus2169]

@@coreshaatkinson8753 There are many types of meningitis and symptoms are based on the my first symptom was severe and nonstop headache. I got my variety (VZV) because I had chicken pox as a kid and the virus was dormant in my body....till somehow it was triggered and my poor immune system couldn't supress it. Doc said I got it from myself.

[@joannavaz2370]

What an absolutely beautiful family! God placed Xoey in the perfect hands, her parents are amazing

[@tracyfinch918]

I had a friend in college who had meningitis at one year old and it physically disabled her in her right arm, speech and both legs . The last time I saw her was by my old job at the restaurant in St. Louis, MO in the early 2000s. She was married and was pregnant with her first baby!

[@CosmicFox808]

Xoey is absolutely precious ❤ All of the parents in these videos are great, but there's something about these two that just catches me. They are so loving, open, and optimistic. Really makes me take a second look at my parenting. And props to the grandparents for helping so much! Xoey is a lucky girl to be a part of this awesome family ❤ I wish they had a Go Fund Me or something. It would be nice if they could hire a nurse at least on occasion so they can have a break.

[@conlon4332]

I mean there are four of them, so they can share the workload.

[@leannemo7382]

They stated that they don’t need a nurse, as they take turns. Grandma watches her when the couple needs private time or date-night together. 👍

[@lunar_moth]

I know you’ve probably heard this a million times but thank you so much for adding easy to read captions to your videos! It really helps a lot.

[@SpookyGhostHippy]

I’m definitely crying happy tears she’s definitely a sweet heart that lights up her families life

[@niwe79]

This little girl is so adorable. And her smile is so heart melting 🥰☺️

[@BaileyGeePoetry]

This is one of my favourites. What an adorable sweet little girl with such a wonderful family

[@twistedcryptid]

Kudos to the family. I can’t imagine how hard it is, and harder it will be to care for Xoey as everyone gets older.

[@parthdesai3698]

Hands down, one of the best channels on KZbin. Thank you for all your hard work, and thank you to both kids like Xoey and families like hers.

[@Alfiedoo12]

Chris, I have learned a lot since I have started watching your videos. Just an observation; Zoe’s parents both teared up when they were talking. Perhaps you could interview the parents separately from their child and talk openly about how difficult it can be to raise a special needs child? I think this part is often glossed over in your interviews and it would help other parents realize they are not alone❤ This family is amazing and the love they have for their child is undeniable, but you can sense their grief and sadness when they discussed her birth and struggles. Hugs from 🇨🇦 Canada!

[@leannemo7382]

EXACTLY!! 💯🎯 In so many of these interviews, I can tell there is much more to be learned if Chris allowed family members & caretakers to *openly express* themselves without the child/subject being present.

[@felipetrespalacios3093]

It does create a bit of a bias

[@abdullahak2204]

Xoey's smile is wholesome! She's got such loving and caring parents, grandma and sister!

[@광동아재廣東大叔]

To think having a child who's never going to have a normal life and needs to be taken care of around the clock... Unimaginable

[@Emma-se5wm]

Wow, what a beautiful family, on the inside and out. Definitely teared up while watching this. I hope that at some point they will be able to have partial at home care, to allow these hardworking family members a brief reprieve and maybe Xoey would like seeing another friendly face. I wonder if now that this is on KZbin, if Xoey will watch this on tv with her Gramma and get excited to see Jaya while Jaya is out at school or with her friends. I wish them all the best, especially to Jaya as a fellow big sister.

[@StellaDoroBreadstick]

What a family!!!! 🤩⭐️ Xoey was born into the right family to love and care for her 🩷 Poor Dad 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@metalmachine974]

Hello. I also got meningitis as a 1 year old I was told by my parents and my family was told by the doctors that they didn't know how much brain damage I might have gotten as a result of the Meningitis. I am extremely lucky to have not endured any brain damage which would impair my logic centers and motor functions. My heart goes out to this little angel and I'm extremely happy for her that she has such a loving and caring family. ❤

[@twistaluva]

What a beautiful, caring, and loving family she has! I don't think they'd want her any other way. Xoey is a beautiful soul and has the support she needs from her family to flourish as an amazing human being with a bright and loving spirit! You can tell how proud her parents are talking about her when they start to tear up. 😢 This is such an amazing story that touched me and hopefully touches countless others who watch this video!!!

[@magicsamart2343]

I’ve left many positive comments on these videos. Thank you Chris, for helping others understand people with differences. Everyone deserves respect and inclusion 💜

[@shine2678]

This little baby girl have such a caring mother, a kind hearted dad, cool grandma and a funloving sister, she is just awesome, you guys are doing such a great job, i will keep you guys in my prayers.. Lots of love to you guys❤.. Love you Xoey!!! God bless you😘😘

[@mosesoftheblock2311]

What a lovely and caring family.

[@kydeerhunter5]

This is a beautiful family. Please stay strong, you have people pulling for you and your family. You do not have to face this challenge alone.

[@flydad9851]

I had an older brother with a similar condition. The doctors told us the same thing. He wouldn’t live past the week, he wouldn’t make it 3 months, he wouldn’t live to see 10 years old. He passed away at 18 years old. It’s amazing how strong love can be.

[@sportsfan9040]

What an amazing family!

[@isa_virtual]

I love this channel so much 😭❤️ please never stop!

[@S.A.N.]

You guys are doing such a good job of raising this beautiful child. You have a beautiful family. Thank you for inviting us inside. I wish you all the best.

[@zeropointnineninenine4951]

Love you Xoey! And im blown away by the level of support going on in this family. Its just so much love, really incredible to see. Anyone would be lucky to have a family like yours!

[@julielondon6067]

Parents are super loving caring strong and great they are together when for others they split. Ty Chris for going to them.

[@Truth2power5848]

I’ve used to watch this channel before my daughter became a special kid herself after battling stage 4 brain cancer ATRT she had chemo radiotherapy multiple brain surgery it first was diagnosed at 6 years old this channel helped me cope through 2 years of treatment and she has Mobility limitations stated in a wheelchair now walks independently but other than that cognitively she’s like nothing ever happened on track with her learning it just makes you realise how life is so special and how lucky we where to live in the UK not have no dents and bills thanks to the NHS brain surgery and cancer treatment is expensive, I feel for Americans it’s already so difficult watching your child fight for thier survival talkless worried you can’t afford to save thier life. Baby girl is so precious and I keep her parents in my thoughts and prayers

[@Unicornofthemoonx]

I Loveeeeeee How its spelled Xoey that is a very unique way to spell it!!!!

[@guardianangel9517]

I'm really grateful to see this video. It proves that the toughest challenges can FILL a room with the spirit of LOVE 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@alexmarin3169]

Xoey is a precious Angel sent to teach and touch people ...her smile and wide eyes bring so much joy to her parents and loved ones. God Bless Xoey and her Family Always!

[@JulesCarolOates]

Thank you Xoey! What a wonderful family you're part of.❤

[@mariaschwartz447]

Painful for these lovely parents to see their child in such a state . Heart breaks for them

[@cierragrove4745]

Wow, Xoey is so sweet and seeing her definitely made my day! I wish I could meet her!

[@galkema]

It is amazing that he is able to get parents to open up and tell their story. 😊

[@katherineashley5712]

What a sweet, sweet family. Kudos to all.

[@JPMgeo]

Beautiful little girl. Wishing Xoey and her family all the best.

[@tloew3360]

This really brought tears to my eyes. So much love ❤such a remarkable family

[@mikhaylasellars2362]

absolutely beautiful family and amazing parents, what a happy little girl you can tell how much love she has to give

[@re-joyce4806]

Xoey what a beautiful precious little girl , thankyou for sharing your story, when Xoey smiles she is radiant you cant help but smile with her, she is amazing❤ God Bless you Xoey and your wonderful family xx❤

[@deborahfairbanks4012]

It just amazes me to meet the wonderful families you feature on your channel

[@kborton99]

This both breaks and warms my heart. To see such love and beauty from such a tragic thing is amazing😢

[@garden_vibes7796]

What a sweet family full of love. This was a great interview!

[@alinahart1239]

What a gorgeous family. I wish I would have had a mother and a grandmother like this gorgeous little girl does. She’s a lucky girl surrounded by love ❤❤❤. May Christ bless her ✝️

[@davidcopperfield-DickensBook]

You all are a loving wonderful family! You are a great example. Thank you for sharing! 🎉

[@sheenagriffith2635]

She's such an adorable sweetheart. Her parents are doing such a great job. I know it may be a lot of hard work to give her that good life but keep up the good work. She's an inspiration.

[@AA-ur2tx]

What wonderful, amazing parents, grandmother,and big sister! Jaya is an old soul and wise beyond her years. You can see it in her eyes. So sweet and comfortable with herself.

[@nese6867]

This entire family is precious...From grams to big sissy...Absolutely beautiful 😊😊❤❤..Lord continue to cover and bless them ❤..Love from Trinidad 🇹🇹 and Tobago 🇹🇹

[@rebeccacarlson9166]

Xoey's Mom and Grandma look like sisters. It's so cool that the family stays together. Xoey is beautiful.

[@AuroraMeansDawn27]

What a beautiful family. Bless them.

[@IamEduD]

It's always so awesome and inspiring to see and hear these kind of stories. I'm glad that, even with all these problems, she will have the support of such an incredible family over all the challenges. Always with love ❤

[@rosesippel2932]

Beautiful loving family older sister looks just like mom Xoey is an amazing special little girl I wish nothing but the best for this wonderful loving family God Bless Xoey ❤

[@ananasparachute]

Xoey is such a beautiful little girl with a bright spirit! I have to say, she has the most gorgeous hair I’ve ever seen! Such an amazing family.

[@emilyarmstrong2328]

I was so moved watching this- you are an amazing family, so joyful and down to earth. God bless you all xxx

[@Forgiven4]

Wow what a precious blessing Zoey is. It’s amazing how much love there is in that family.

[@marycox7933]

Your whole family is amazing! I admire your dedication to Zoey. I also have a daughter with severe brain damage. Elizabeth, like Zoey, suffered some type of damage to her brain at 18 months of age. I know the emotional toll it takes on everyone, God bless you all.

[@balaam_7087]

Hi Xoey and family!! I enjoyed watching your video, and it is most commendable how much positivity, joy and enthusiasm you have. I can’t help but wonder how much of that wholesome goodness rubs off on Xoey and brightens her day, even if it might not get articulated. She looks so happy 🥰 These exceptional parents have my utmost admiration and respect.

[@browneagle2393]

Zoe is such a a happy little one!!!! What a gift.....that keeps on smiling!!!!

[@CurlyLocksRock]

I love your videos so much! Keep inspiring and allowing people to tell their stories. This truly helps others grow! #Acceptance #Awareness #Inclusion ❤

[@deanawells4395]

What a wonderful family and the joy that this beautiful girl has is so heartwarming ❤

[@regsis]

Watching this warmed my heart . I admire the dedication and love that these two parents are giving to their daughter ( such a sweetheart ) . In my opinion , the grandma is first class and very hands on and her older sister is so loving and supportive . I pray that God in his power and mercy will strengthen and support this beautiful family throughout life and give them the strength to live their lives to the fullest . The parents are correct in saying that more places should be more wheelchair accessible . Everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy everything and should not be defined by the fact that they have to use a wheelchair . They are people too and should be treated with love and respect jusr like everyone else .

[@jesshawes9710]

You can just see how happy and loved she feels. Meeting Xoey made my day ❤

[@loislynncameron9608]

What a caring precious family! I am deeply touched like others. Xoey is so adorable.❤❤❤

[@aplden570]

Hey, Xoey's mom and dad. We see you. ❤ Absolute warriors for your girl and your family.

[@sherimillman53]

So sorry to hear this she is beautiful ❤️

[@allieanderson4783]

Another amazing family that deserves the absolute world

[@ashleyleigh28]

Sending Xoey and family all the love and joy in the world ❤ thank you for sharing your story with us. Thanks SBSK for interviewing this incredible family!

[@WhitneyGilmer-fq8ez]

She is so beautiful and you guys are absolutely amazing and precious. Love you guys ❤

[@RingoNoodle]

XOEY IS A PRECIOUS ANGEL AND YOU CANT CHANGE MY MIND

[@julieromano6393]

What a beautiful family. This makes my heart happy even though I’m crying!

[@DroDro3]

great episode wishing all the family good health and good luck

[@lamadrina2991]

This is awesome Chris! One of the best interviews I’ve seen from you. Thank you to this beautiful family for sharing their story. Yes, I shed a tear, it was most because she’s right everyday she’s amazed on how Xoey continues even when she’s sick, with smiles!

[@stacysalinas22]

Thank you for sharing the story of Xoey's life. It is wonderful how everyone pulls together to support her, and each other. I can see how dedicated you are to your daughters...always make sure your needs, emotional and physical, are being met, too. It is easy to forget about self-care when you are so busy, your needs matter! Blessings and strength to all of you.❤

[@lilytaylor4760]

There are two girls I know (twins) who also got sick like Xoey but they were a few weeks older. One of them is blind and deaf, while her sister has developmental delays and vision impairments and they both have forms of epilepsy. They’re both very sweet and are now 5 years old. They have an older brother and friends who don’t quite understand what is happening but still include them in activities.

[@reyneerleon3851]

I am a meningitis survivor at 8 of age and the only side effect I got is loss of hearing. But yeah I can talk normally to today and I have to be reading people's lips.