Troy was born 4-weeks premature on July 26^th, 1994.  He is the oldest of John and Carrie Hannasch’s 3 children.   Troy  has 2 younger siblings, Kelvin age 13 and a sister Kayla age 9.  The Hannasch family lives in Lakeville in a home they had  specially built in 2000 that is handicapped accessible to  accommodate Troy’s special needs.   

Troy is currently a freshman at Lakeville North High School.   At 8-months of age Troy was diagnosed with Cerebral-Palsy-spastic diplegia.  He also has Epilepsy, ADD, and mild to moderate cognitive function.  Over the years, Troy has undergone approximately 12 surgeries.  Most recently, in 2007, he had a pump surgically implanted into his abdominal area that slowly infuses medication to help reduce his spasticity.   Troy’s seizures have been partially controlled by medication since 1998.

He uses a Quantumo 600 wheelchair that he is able to steer in low gear on his own – in low gear and in open areas! Troy uses a variety of other adaptive equipment to assist in his care and help him continue to grow his skills towards greater independence.  He is able to creep on the floor, sit up on the floor with support and do some feeding with his fingers.   Troy is working on walking up a few stairs by hanging onto railings and other skills to increase his abilities to participate in his activities of daily living.  He uses a special treadmill to exercise his legs and build his strength and endurance.

Using proceeds from the 2007 golf tournament John and Carrie were able to purchase Troy an adapted “bicycle built for two” that allows Troy to not only exercise, it gets him outside and gets him out and about in the neighborhood.  It is such a treat to see him coming down the street and hear him laughing his way through the neighborhood!

Troy has a very special and adventurous spirit.  He is positive, hard working, very social, and has a great sense of humor! His smile can light up a room and his laughter will capture your heart.  Troy enjoys playing on the Blazing Cats adapted softball team comprised of players form Lakeville, Burnsville and Farmington.  H e can tell you just about anything you need to know about his beloved Minnesota Twins.  He is an avid sports fan, whether by participating himself, watching the professionals or cheering on his siblings – he’s the one you want on your side!