A Child of Faith

Tia'Ahlee's Story

Tia'Ahlee Maxie

Tia’Ahlee Maxie is sixteen years old and has a heart condition that has challenged her since birth. She has undergone lifesaving medical treatments, including four major open-heart surgeries. In addition to fighting for her life each day, Tia is a survivor of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. She has also been bullied and threatened most of her life because she is different. But with the help of her unwavering faith and her loving family, she doesn’t let any of this hold her back.

Tia’Ahlee’s dream has always been to write a book to share her message with others who may be struggling with their health or suffering from abuse or bullying. With the help of Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana, Tia’s dream came true. Her words of hope and profound wisdom will inspire you and touch your heart. As this extraordinary and resilient young woman reminds us, you can be your own superhero by helping good people, being strong, and loving who you are.

Tia’Ahlee Maxie is sixteen years old. She has a congenital heart condition that has challenged her throughout her life. Since birth, Tia has undergone extensive lifesaving medical treatment, including four major open-heart surgeries, twelve heart caths, and thirteen emergency procedures to add BT shunts and stents. In 2021, she had a double titanium stent replacement to create more space in her chest so her heart could pump her blood more efficiently.

Tia enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Her faith and that of her family and the expert medical care she has received have enabled her to share her special message with you today. Tia’s wish was made possible by Drs. Kim and Bronner and the kind people at Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Greenleaf Book Group in Austin, Texas. This is her first book.

Tia lives in Lufkin, Texas, with her parents, Pat and Sherricka; her sister, Talia; her cousin Khloe; and their two cats, Shadow and Rody.