Rado Is Scoring Goals in Soccer and in Life With a Smile

Rado has overcome several challenges in his 14 years of life, including coming to a new country and learning another language.

Originally from Bulgaria, Rado was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a rare and progressive neuromuscular condition. Treatment options for SMA were very limited in Bulgaria, and his family faced an uncertain future. But three years ago, they arrived in Houston, Texas, where Rado joined a clinical trial for the first approved therapy for SMA.

Transitioning to life in a new country wasn’t easy, especially because Rado spoke little English. But with determination, he learned quickly, fueled by his love for connecting with people and his eagerness to embrace new opportunities. Now a ninth-grader, Rado shines in math, and his love of science reveals a natural curiosity about the world.

Thanks to Shriners Children’s Texas, Rado has a new level of independence. He can stand upright with the help of custom braces crafted by the Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services (POPS) team. Standing upright promotes better circulation, and the braces allow him to remain vertical for a couple of hours each day.

“Shriners Children's has been a critical part of our journey since we settled in Houston three years ago,” Ralitsa, Rado’s mother, said. “During our initial transition, when Rado was uninsured and still navigating the immigration process, Shriners Children's extended a hand and provided the specialized orthopedic care he so greatly needed."

A passionate athlete, Rado didn’t want SMA to stop him from playing the sport he loves: soccer. When he learned about power soccer in Houston, he jumped at the chance to join the Houston Fireballs team. Power soccer requires a highly-specialized power wheelchair that allows him to spin and strike the ball with precision. “These wheelchairs are built so you can spin, kick and hit the ball harder,” Rado explained with a big grin. He likes to go fast and to be in the middle of all the action.

Rado also loves Texas barbecue and relishes spending time with friends, rarely staying at home. His sociable nature has made him a beloved friend among his classmates and teammates, and he’s already looking forward to next year’s visit to Camp Love Without Limits. The hospital is even a place he looks forward to visiting because, as he puts it, “the food is really good!”