At just two weeks old, Eli was diagnosed with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC)—a rare genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow in vital organs. His journey began when his mom noticed subtle muscle spasms the day she brought him home. Those spasms turned out to be seizures. Thanks to the incredible team at the TSC Clinic at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Eli received a quick diagnosis and began treatment right away.
From that moment, his life—and his family’s—has been filled with medical appointments, therapies, and medications. There is no cure for TSC, and Eli has been on seizure and tumor medications ever since he was a baby.
But this is not just a story about a diagnosis—it’s about a boy with unshakable spirit. Eli lives each day with curiosity and joy. Though he faces apraxia (a motor planning delay) and other challenges, he refuses to let them define him. He loves sports—especially basketball—and has a surprising fascination with weather documentaries. His dream? To be a storm chaser.
Despite the obstacles, Eli’s resilience and enthusiasm inspire everyone around him. He is proof that even in the face of a complex, lifelong condition, hope, joy, and dreams still thrive.
Eli’s journey is the heart of the Eli TSC Hope Fund—created to support families impacted by TSC who are receiving care at the Cincinnati Children’s TSC Clinic and beyond. Because of Eli, we’re building a community where no one feels alone, where families can find relief, resources, and real hope.
