Thanks to expert care informed by advances in precision medicine developed by Drs. Brandon Tefft and Aoy Tomita Mitchell, William can now run, jump, and play like other children his age. For the researchers, William’s health is not only a personal victory, it reflects what cutting-edge science can achieve for children facing complex conditions.
Seeing the impact of their work reflected in this piece provided a vivid reminder of the human side of science and the motivation to keep striving for new discoveries, says Dr. Tomita Mitchell.

“Seeing our research featured in this project was transformative and inspiring,” she says. “It makes you want to keep pushing forward.

The drawings featured in the video, created by William and animated by Dave Kiehl, trace his journey from fragile beginnings to a vibrant present.

Throughout his childhood, William has drawn self-portraits with his heart—an anatomical heart—at the center. His artwork illustrates that his medical condition is not separate from who he is, but an integral part of his identity.

“In William’s story, there’s a movement from silence and uncertainty to playfulness and calm,” says Reed, who mirrored that movement in the score. “It’s about growth, possibility, and the chance to simply live.”

By blending William’s artwork with music and animation, the piece makes visible what data alone cannot.

“When you see William’s artwork and hear his story, it becomes so much more powerful,” says Dr. Tefft. “Statistics don’t resonate the way stories do. Behind every number is a child with creativity, talent, and hope.”

William’s journey stands as a testament to the importance and promise of research. Scientific innovation gave him the opportunity for a healthy childhood. Through art, his story now helps others see both the urgency and the promise of advancing medicine.