By JIM LANGHAM

Feature Writer

PAYNE – When John and Maria Roddy received a critical diagnosis for their daughter, Gabby (Gabriella), they grieved, but also prayed that as long as God would allow her to be with them, they would do all that they could to make her happy.

When Maria was carrying Gabby, there were indications that the child could be handicapped in certain ways, but it wasn’t until the baby was 4 months old that she was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition, Muscle Eye Brain disorder (born without the top of her brain). She also had dysphasia and infantile glaucoma.

Since her birth three years ago, Gabby has undergone hospitalizations for various reasons, including seven eye surgeries, two brain surgeries, G-Tube placement and teeth, tonsil and adenoids removal.