Xela Bryce
2003 Community Hero
Because Xela’s smile fills the room when family and friends enter, it is no wonder that she's been nicknamed "Happy" by those who love her. “She's happy everyday regardless of any obstacles in her way,” says Adrian, her dad.
On October 18, 2000, the first conjoined twins in Portland, Oregon history were born. Xela and her twin sister Alaina were delivered physically conjoined, sharing a liver and weighing a combined 12 pounds, 5 ounces. Since their physical separation, although her sister recovered fully, Xela has undergone multiple surgeries to repair her heart, endured a tracheotomy and a feeding tube. Still, this tiny little girl is an example of happiness.
“Xela binds our family together. We call her “Happy” because no matter her condition: past or present - her tender smile shines her love and gives those gentle good feelings of what being happy is all about.”
