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22Q11.2 Deletion Syndrome

Sports
Lyndhurst High School's First Special Needs Cheerleader Brings Important Quality To Squad Lyndhurst High School's First Special Needs Cheerleader Brings Important Quality To Squad
Lyndhurst High School's First Special Needs Cheerleader Brings Important Quality To Squad A cheerleader is all Lyndhurst's Gianna Cruz has ever wanted to be. Well that, and accepted. This fall, the 15-year-old will be both -- making her Lyndhurst High School's first ever cheerleader with special needs. Born with a rare illness called 22Q11.2 Deletion Syndrome, Gianna has never let her disabilities stand in the way of her dream. Gianna is a longtime member of the Sparks (Special Angels) Cheer Squad and two years ago, she joined Lyndhurst's recreational team. "All we've ever wanted is for Gianna to have acceptance and be included," said mom Anna Rizzo.  "All she d…

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by Cecilia Levine