Cyrus Mood

Help Zippy Live Life His Way!

Meet Cyrus Mood, better known as Zippy!

Zippy is five years old, a kindergartner, a little brother, a problem-solver, a comedian, and quite possibly one of the most determined people you’ll ever meet.

He loves spending time with his big sister, Lena, playing with friends, swimming, riding horses, creating art, and figuring out how to do things his own way. Whether he’s helping sweep the floor, encouraging his sister, or finding a creative solution to a challenge, Zippy believes there is always another way.

And he’s usually right!

A Little About Zippy

Zippy was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC), a rare condition affecting his joints and muscles. His condition affects all four limbs and his spine, resulting in significant joint contractures, muscle weakness, and limited mobility.

In simpler terms, many of Zippy’s joints don’t bend or straighten the way most people’s do, and his muscles have to work incredibly hard to accomplish everyday tasks.

Arthrogryposis is not progressive, but growing brings new challenges. Zippy requires ongoing therapies, specialized equipment, bracing, medical care, and assistance with daily activities.

He uses a power wheelchair to navigate the world independently, and he is incredibly proud of that independence! He also works hard in physical therapy, occupational therapy, swimming, and equine-assisted therapy to develop strength, mobility, and new skills.

Over the years, Zippy has made remarkable progress. He has learned to sit independently, stand with support, explore movement in the water, and find creative ways to participate in activities that weren’t designed with his body in mind.

His progress doesn’t always look like traditional milestones, but every new skill opens another door.

Independence Looks Different for Everyone

One of the questions we’ve heard since Zippy was born is, “Will he ever walk?”

The answer is that we don’t know.

But here’s what we do know: Walking is not a measure of success. Independence, participation, belonging, and joy matter so much more.

Zippy is already living a full and meaningful life. He goes to school, makes friends, advocates for himself, and dreams big.

Our goal isn’t to make Zippy’s body work like everyone else’s. Our goal is to give him the tools, opportunities, and support to do the things he wants to do, in the ways that work for him.

And that’s where you come in!

Your Donations Are Already Making a Difference!

Through Help Hope Live, family, friends, and generous supporters have helped us purchase specialized adaptive equipment that insurance doesn’t cover or doesn’t fully fund.

Because of your generosity, Zippy has received:

• An adaptive therapy bike that gives him opportunities for movement, exercise, and fun.

• A supportive toileting chair that makes a very personal daily activity safer, more comfortable, and more dignified.

• Additional adaptive equipment and medical supports that help him participate more fully in everyday life.

These aren’t just pieces of equipment. They represent opportunities for Zippy to experience greater independence, comfort, confidence, and inclusion.

And we’re so grateful!

What’s Next for Zippy?

As Zippy grows, so do his needs, his interests, and his dreams.

One of our current goals is to purchase a Rifton Adaptive Desk, a specialized height-adjustable and tilting work surface that would allow Zippy to access schoolwork, artwork, games, and other activities from his power wheelchair.

Right now, something as simple as drawing can require him to twist his body, lean forward, or use a makeshift setup that doesn’t adequately support his posture. An adaptive desk would give him better access to the activities he loves while supporting his positioning and independence.

We also continue to fundraise for ongoing medical and disability-related expenses, including specialized equipment, adaptive technology, therapeutic supports, and other needs that aren’t fully covered by insurance.

Even with private health insurance, the financial responsibility is significant. Our family manages hundreds of medical and therapy appointments each year, along with the costs of specialized equipment, ongoing care, and services that make Zippy’s everyday life possible.

Many of the things that would make the biggest difference in his independence simply aren’t covered by traditional insurance.

Why We Fundraise Through Help Hope Live

Family and friends of Cyrus Mood are raising money through the nonprofit Help Hope Live to help cover eligible uninsured medical and related expenses associated with his rare condition.

Help Hope Live provides financial oversight and accountability for funds raised, and eligible contributions are tax-deductible.

Your generosity allows us to say YES to opportunities that might otherwise be financially out of reach.

YES to adaptive equipment.

YES to independence.

YES to participating alongside his peers.

YES to discovering new possibilities.

And YES to letting Zippy be Zippy!

Thank You for Being Part of Zippy’s Story

We know there are countless worthy causes and families who need support. We never take your generosity for granted.

Whether you’ve donated, shared his story, encouraged us, celebrated a milestone, or simply taken the time to learn more about disability and accessibility, you’ve made a difference.

Thank you for helping Zippy build a life full of possibility, independence, belonging, and joy.

To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click the Give button on this page.

For more information about donating, contact Help Hope Live at 800-642-8399.

To learn more about Arthrogryposis, visit AMC Support.

Follow Zippy’s adventures on Instagram: @whozcindylu.

With gratitude,

The Mood Family