Dad, I want just to keep walking ... that’s music to my ears
Ella’sgettingclosertorealisingherdream
A proud dad has shared an update on his inspiring daughter and her fight to walk on her own.
Ella Green’s dad William says she is a “brave courageous warrior” after taking part in trials with new equipment that is taking her closer to her dream of walking unaided.
The schoolgirl has arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) and managed to take her first steps last Christmas, helped by a special hoist, after pioneering surgery in Poland.
William said it had been “a great start to 2023” after seeing his daughter (7), up on her feet in her ankle foot orthosis (AFO), a brace that supports the ankle and foot.
He said at first Ella was refusing to wear the AFOs, but quickly realised it would all be worthwhile in the end.
William said: “The most wonderful part of the trials was hearing her say, ‘dad, I want to keep walking’. This was music to my ears. She has gradually being increased the amount of time each day to wear her AFOs.
“Her trainers fit perfect with them. We trialled the hoist onto the standing/ walking frame. Well done to the staff at St John’s Hospital for going to these extra lengths for my girl.
“Now it’s a waiting game to get approved funding for the correct frame.”
William went on: “She’s so positive and moving forward. We don’t stop, we keep going. Every day is tough but we stand together and keep the routine going. Ella will win this battle.”
The little girl lost her mum Kat last year and William said he knows she’s looking down on her daughter with pride.
He said: “We hit blip for a few months but we have an excellent team in place now and by God they have Ella’s best interests at heart.
“We wish mum was here to see her progress but I know in spirit she will be walking by her side holding her hand.”