For 14-year-old Sheridan Lynch, softball is more than a hobby. It’s one of her favorite ways to spend time with friends, compete and have fun. So when she learned she would need surgery to correct a severe curve in her spine, one of her biggest concerns was when she could get back on the field.

Three years ago, Gia was a happy, healthy 4-year-old just starting preschool. She was an animal lover who adored cats and, like most kids her age, was focused on playing and having fun. Her family had no reason to think that was about to change.