Little girl with cerebral palsy climbs stairs independently for the first time in heartwarming clip

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement and posture, primarily in children. It is caused by damage to the developing brain, usually before or during birth, but can also occur during early childhood. The damage affects the part of the brain that controls muscle coordination and can lead to a wide range of physical and developmental challenges. Common symptoms include walking, coordination, balance, and muscle control difficulties. Some children might experience stiff or floppy muscles, involuntary movements, and trouble with fine motor skills, such as grasping objects or writing. However, with time and effort, children can overcome these symptoms. u/Rollo_Tomasi3000 shared their daughter's efforts to take her first independent steps on the stairs for the first time. 

In the video, we get to see their daughter steadily climb up four sets of stairs all by herself. It begins with a text overlay reading, "POV: Watching my 8-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy do her first independent steps up stairs! Watch to the end." We get to see an individual behind her to catch her in case she falls. The daughter, Briella, had been practicing this exercise for two weeks to allow herself to do it on her own. A commendable act for a child diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

The video angle changes and we get to see a friend of hers who is in a wheelchair cheering her on. Slowly, she finally reaches the fourth step and the text overlay reads, "Yes, yes I can!!" Briella, evidently happy and proud, flexes her arms to celebrate her victory. Brielle's efforts had many netizens voice their support for her in the comments section. u/umpolkadots said, "Awww, the way she claps for herself! That's some spirit! Well done to her, amazing achievement." u/Ok_Share_9987 applauded Brielle's friend, saying, "I like that girl in the wheelchair - who might never have a chance of this progression is just absolutely happy for her." Moved by the little girl's will to keep going, u/Like_old-fords commented, "I am a 56-year-old grown man who stands 6 foot three. I'm crying. I don't know her and I am so proud of her."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cerebral palsy is the most frequent motor disability affecting children. Recent studies conducted worldwide show prevalence rates of CP ranging from 1 to almost 4 cases per 1,000 live births or per 1,000 children. The occurrence of CP is more prevalent among children born prematurely or with low birth weight. Early intervention, therapy, and supportive care play a crucial role in managing cerebral palsy and improving a child's quality of life. Physical, occupational and speech therapy can help children develop and strengthen their motor and communication skills. With appropriate care and support, many children with cerebral palsy have lived fulfilling lives and achieved their potential.