Like many 10-year-old boys, Kian Demkowitch loves sports, playing with his friends, and hanging out with his family. His favorite subjects are science, math and art, and he enjoys attending summer programs too.  

What’s different about Kian is that he’s had many obstacles to overcome and continues to do so daily. Born with spina bifida, Kian can walk unassisted and participates in many sports, but he does have other daily  challenges, due to being partially paralyzed. Kian approaches life with a smile and knows these challenges and his diagnosis do not define him. 

When you first meet Kian, you can’t help but to be inspired by his positive attitude and cheerful demeanor. “He faces his challenges gracefully, and he works really hard,” Mom Shauna says. “We are really proud of him.” 

The Demkowitch family hasn’t let anything stop them. They’ve encouraged Kian to try adaptive snowboarding and many other sports, including the Sitrin STARS wheelchair basketball.  

At the Sitrin STARS Celebrity Classic Wheelchair Basketball Game this past April, it’s safe to say that Kian was everyone’s favorite player. When he made a basket from his chair, the entire gymnasium stood up and cheered! “I felt like an NBA player when they introduced us all before the game! It felt amazing to make that basket,” Kian says. 

“While we are thankful for Kian’s mobility, we recognize that he does tire easily, which is why we introduced the wheelchair at an early age,” Shauna said. “He took to it right away.” 

“It is so nice to be able to have these opportunities,” Shauna says. “I think there is more of a need for adaptive sports for all ages than people realize.” 

According to the Mayo Clinic website, spina bifida is a condition that occurs when the spine and the spinal cord don’t form properly. Typically, the neural tube forms early in pregnancy and closes during the first month after conception. In babies with SB, a portion of the neural tube doesn’t close all the way, affecting the spinal cord, nerves and bones of the spine.  

Shauna describes spina bifida as a “snowflake” condition, meaning that it is different – including degree of severity - in each person who has it. 

The youngest of three, Kian’s new passion is golf. He admires Tiger Woods, who has faced some physical challenges as well. 

“Whatever Kian wants to try, we encourage him to do it,” Shauna said. “I think that sports are not only important for your physical health, but for your mental health and overall well-being.” 

Marc DePerno, vice president of Foundation & Communications at Sitrin and coach of the STARS, said, “Kian exemplifies the purpose of the STARS program. When presented with an opportunity, he will grow and shine every time. His strength, energy and passion are the foundation of a great athlete.” 

Kian receives both physical and occupational therapy at school, and wears leg braces to help him walk. 

“He treats life like everyone else,” Shauna says. “We don’t see his physical disadvantages. His positive attitude keeps him strong physically and mentally.” 

“He is the strongest 10-year-old I know,” Mom says proudly.

To learn more about the Sitrin STARS program, click here.