Jeana Hudnall was 18 weeks pregnant when doctors told her and her husband Harrison that their third child, Manny, would be born with spina bifida. She recalls what the doctor said next that helped them prepare for the difficult medical journey Manny faced after birth.

“The doctor said, ‘He’s going to be a bright light and joy in this world. He is a blessing.’”

As Manny, grew up, those words proved true.

Today, Manny, 15, is one of the most popular teenagers in his hometown in Minnesota where he spends his free time playing basketball and occasionally giving locker-room pep talks to some of his high school sports teams.

With his sense of humor, unwavering optimism, and the support of his loved ones, he continues to create the life of his dreams. In this episode of our series Open Book, Manny shares how spina bifida impacts his life in unseen ways.

Watch the video here.

Medtronic

Medtronic

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We lead global healthcare technology and boldly attack the most challenging health problems facing humanity by searching out and finding solutions. Our Mission — to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life — unites a global team of 90,000+ passionate people. Powered by our diverse knowledge, insatiable curiosity, and desire to help all those who need it, we deliver innovative technologies that transform the lives of two people every second, every hour, every day. Expect more from us as we empower insight-driven care, experiences that put people first, and better outcomes for our world.

In everything we do, we are engineering the extraordinary.

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