Cerebral palsy is a disorder that affects people of all ages. People are born with it, and it affects the way they move and, in some cases, can cause mental delays. Children who have cerebral palsy often struggle to keep up with other children their age, and many of them are confined to wheelchairs and unable to walk.
Little Maya is only 4 and has been trying to walk for a long time.
Her parents encouraged her to continue but also wondered if they would ever see the day that she could take a few steps. Then one day, it happened.
Little Maya started to walk. She took her first steps while her family videotaped it. Most babies take their first steps within their first year of life, but it took Maya almost five to master this skill. Still, her family couldn’t be prouder of her.
Maya is also clearly proud of herself.
She can be heard squealing with excitement and laughing. She is clearly smiling and thrilled that she can do it. Her mom posted the video on Facebook. She said:
‘First Steps – 4 years, 10 months. I can’t even put into words how we are feeling. Nothing seems to fit the enormity of this moment for us. We are beyond proud of our Mighty Girl.’
In the video, her father and brother can also be heard encouraging her.
Her father says:
“That was a big marching step. Why don’t you straighten your toes out over there?”
According to Cerebral Palsy Guide:
“Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the fetal or infant’s brain. It occurs when there is neurological damage before, during, or within five years of birth that prevents the brain from developing properly. Damage to the parts of the brain that control motor function causes children with CP to struggle with posture, balance, and movement. Although this disability affects muscle tone and movement, it isn’t caused by problems with the actual muscles or nerves — it is strictly the result of developmental brain damage.”
The family received a lot of support, and people who didn’t even know them were overcome with emotion when they watched the video.
A lot of comments talked about how happy the little girl is and how watching the video allowed them to feel her happiness.
Princesstrice said:
“I was in awe from the joy on her face but, when she said, ‘I KNOW I can do it.’ The tears started rolling… Her spirit is beautiful.”
Kristina XXO said:
“Your little girl is beyond precious and I can only send all my love and best wishes for the future to you and your family! This is most beautiful thing I’ve ever watched and it’s like I can feel her joy and motivation pour through the screen. My hero and role model!”
Pommerlis said:
“On my off-days, I watch this and an instant smile comes and my day is better. Mighty Miss Maya, you go girl!”
Jessica Dockery Talley said:
“I have watched this video so many times that I’ve lost count. Thank you so much for sharing her story and please give her a hug from me. She truly is mighty”
The family hopes that Maya’s story will help bring some hope to other parents who have children with cerebral palsy.
If Maya can learn to walk, maybe other children can, as well. Maya isn’t done, either. She still has big plans ahead of her. She wants to take more than just a few steps, and with the support of her family and her pleasant attitude, she will reach her goals.
Her video has been shared and viewed thousands of times.
Someday, Maya will do more than take just a few steps, and when she does, her family, friends, and new fans are going to be there to watch it and support her.
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