10/23/2025
For families affected by spina bifida, knowing where to turn for specialized care is critical from the very start.
Cruze and her husband learned at her 12-week appointment that their son, Captain, had spina bifida. They immediately focused on ensuring he would receive the best care and were referred to the Texas Children’s Fetal Center® for fetoscopic in-utero surgery.
Captain underwent the procedure with Dr. Whitehead, repairing his neural tube defect before birth. By a miracle, he was born with no symptoms, though his care continues closely. Recently, he developed hydrocephalus, and Dr. Whitehead performed an ETV/CPC procedure that they hope will be a one-and-done treatment.
The family plans to utilize Texas Children’s Spina Bifida Program throughout Captain’s life, knowing he will have a team by his side every step of the way.
Cruze shares a message for other families: “I know it is scary at first. However, once you find the place that treats your child like their own, you will feel at peace. Our son is perfect to us, and if you didn’t know any better, you’d think he was a perfectly healthy baby.” ❤️
📸: Dawn Thornton Photography
Learn more about Texas Children’s Spina Bifida Program: http://ms.spr.ly/6187s7dXU.