Age: 12
Hometown: Moorpark, Ca
Game: UCLA vs. Arizona State
View game photos
Casey, 12, suffers from chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction, a gastrointestinal disorder that affects digestion and nutrient absorption. In his first year of life, Casey suffered with his illness undiagnosed, but sooner after turning one, Casey’s family contacted the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at UCLA, where he was diagnosed with the rare progressive and degenerative disease.
Despite a difficult 11-year battle, Casey has maintained a positive life outlook and is described as happy and adventurous by those who know him. “He’s a fighter, he’s tough and he has an amazing heart,” his mom, Rachel, says. “He cares for other people, he loves his sister and his brothers, but he also wants to change the lives of other kids that are like him.”
Since the age of 6, Casey has continued to give back to UCLA by hosting and organizing an annual holiday toy-donation drive for pediatric patients and their families at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital.
Casey truly exemplifies the qualities of a UCLA Kid Captain, exhibiting courage, strength and determination. Thank U Casey for inspiring us all!
