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Toddler's 24-Hour Naps Defy Medical Norms
17 Jan
Summary
- Cecilia, 22 months, has CDKL5 deficiency disorder.
- She randomly sleeps for 24 hours up to four times monthly.
- Her mother shares their journey on TikTok to raise awareness.
A rare genetic condition, CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD), causes 22-month-old Cecilia to experience unpredictable 24-hour sleep cycles. This developmental epileptic encephalopathy affects approximately 1 in 40,000 to 60,000 live births, leading to neurodevelopmental delays and sleep disturbances.
Cecilia's adoptive mother, Melinda Collier, describes how these lengthy naps occur randomly, sometimes up to four times a month. While Cecilia's development aligns with that of a 7-month-old, she has been seizure-free since May 2025, a significant milestone.
Collier actively shares their family's journey on TikTok, aiming to raise awareness and offer support to others. She emphasizes the importance of advocacy for children with rare disorders, drawing strength from her faith and her daughter's resilience. Collier also cherishes the open adoption process that surrounds Cecilia with love from both her adoptive and biological families.
