For Collyns Hutson, a fifth-grade student at Legacy Elementary School, remaining engaged with her teachers and classmates is important - even when she is homebound and facing a serious genetic medical condition.

Collyns, 10, is suffering from Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT).  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HHT is a disorder in which some blood vessels do not develop properly. A person with HHT may form blood vessels without the capillaries.  The space between an artery and a vein is often fragile and can burst and bleed much more easily than other blood vessels.

However, with advanced technology, Collyns is getting the chance to interact with other students and to remain active in class.  A VGo robot allows her to have classroom experiences and social interactions from the safety of her home.  The device was provided in partnership with the Region 11 Education Service Center.

“For many 10-year-olds, school is not just about academics. The social aspect of school is equally important. After visiting with Collyns at the beginning of her homebound stint, I just knew we had to do something to keep her engaged with academics and seeing her peers,” commented Principal Ammie Hill.  “Watching her light up when she first saw and commanded the robot from her iPad, I just knew this was the perfect solution to the difficult situation at hand.”

According to the company, the device allows students with special health needs to receive the same instruction as their peers, move around classrooms independently, socialize with friends and participate in a full school day with their classmates.

Several groups throughout Godley ISD are working to assist the family.  “Collyns Strong” bracelets are worn by many to show their support.  On Dec. 15, Godley High School basketball teams are holding “Heart of Gold” games to benefit Collyns and her family.  Fundraising at the game will include t-shirts, bake sale and a live auction.

Collyns will be undergoing extensive testing to determine the next steps, which could include a double-lung transplant.

This story is published with permission from Collyns' parents.