top of page
News + Updates
Stories
Learn more about children and families living with Cockayne Syndrome.


The Spagnoletti Brothers
Ryan Peter Spagnoletti Ryan Peter Spagnoletti was born on 13 June 2003 in Cape town south Africa. He arrived at 33 weeks and spent 3 weeks in hospital and weighed 1,6 kgs. He was such a happy little boy who loved to be around adult company. Some say he had a wise soul. Despite that old soul, he was a typical boy; he loved sports and being mischievous. He also loved riding his bike and his horse. Ryan especially loved horseback riding especially when they trotted and went
Geana Dyer
2 min read


Sweet Ben
Ben is a happy and curious 7-year-old boy with the severe form of Cockayne Syndrome. He is fearless and loves to explore and make new friends. Ben always likes to be helpful and is a brave little man who will rush to defend a person in need. He loves to cuddle and explore the outdoors.
Geana Dyer
1 min read


Meet Bella and Colt
Family sitting in front of holiday decor

Cockayne Syndrome Foundation
1 min read


Meet Chase
Chase at just two years old is the baby of the bunch but he rules the house with his smile and sass. He loves playing with his older brothers and is bound and determined to keep up. He is very determined and will not give up on getting what he wants. His memory is excellent and he knows landmarks around town, screaming for us to look as he points. His smile will light up any room and it brightens our family’s life.

Cockayne Syndrome Foundation
1 min read


Meet Little Zion
Zion is the most fun loving six year old you will ever meet.

Cockayne Syndrome Foundation
1 min read


Get to Know Harper
Meet Harper who was 10 years old and was diagnosed with CS in December 2021.

Cockayne Syndrome Foundation
1 min read


Meet Little Olive Mae
I would love to share little Olive Mae!! I’ve attached some pictures but let me know if they don’t work or you want something else! Meet Olive Mae Marquez, one of the spunkiest, fiercest, and happiest 5-year-olds around. Olive has type 1 Cockayne syndrome, which has affected her in many different ways. But one thing is for sure: she’s been working on overcoming them all! She loves to care for her baby brother Eli (and her many babies), pretend play doctor or kitchen, kick t

Cockayne Syndrome Foundation
1 min read


A Short Story from Kainen
Kainen is our joyful little man, now 8 months old and almost 9. From the very beginning, he has shown us incredible strength, even through a difficult start to life. Diagnosed with Cockayne Syndrome, he has faced challenges with courage and calmness that inspire everyone around him. Recently, Kainen has gained impressive upper body strength, working hard each week in PT and OT. His head control is remarkable, a true reflection of his determination. He attends Head Start, wher

Cockayne Syndrome Foundation
1 min read
bottom of page