Markus Schneider

Markus has definitely had a hard couple of years. From actively playing sports with NF2 to being unable to move due to chronic pain from post-surgical complications. Despite this, he attempts to live a ‘normal’ life as much as possible. He has set goals for himself, that most in his current condition would not attempt. Additionally, given his condition, he continually advocates for NF research and a cure to his congressman and senators, while showing up to NF conferences (if he is not undergoing a procedure).

“I was told I would never drive since birth, I overcame that. I was told I had a disorder affecting my cognitive abilities, and I overcame that. I had massive tumors removed from my spinal cord, and needed a wheelchair, then a walker, then was able to run on a treadmill this year. I’ve overcome major ups and downs from secondary medicines given after the chemotherapy clinical trial this past year.” – Markus

Markus and his family split their B Happy vacation between Orlando and the Tampa/Clearwater area. They had a one-day visit at EPCOT, and spent their time in Tampa/Clearwater on the beach and learning about marine life. They had a one-on-one VIP dolphin experience with our partners at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and rode the Little Toot dolphin watching boat.

David, Markus’ dad, shares, “NF does not let up, but this trip gave us just that. It was the first time in a long time I have seen my boy sincerely happy.”