A doting West Lothian dad has shared his joy after his 'inspiring' daughter took part in trials to help her walk on her own.
Arebella Green’s dad William, from Bathgate, says she is a 'brave courageous warrior', after she managed to take her first steps last Christmas helped by a special hoist. The schoolgirl has arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC), a term used to describe over 300 conditions that cause multiple curved joints in areas of the body at birth.
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 to control the position and movement of the ankle. He said at first Ella was refusing to wear the AFOs, but quickly realised it would all be worthwhile in the end.
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William told the Daily Record: “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.
“Monday was her longest and her trainers fitted perfect with them. We trialed 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 its waiting game to get approved funding for the correct frame. Ella got dizzy and pins and needles in her feet walking, but worth it though to see the happiness in her.
“She’s so positive and progression is moving forward. We don’t stop, we keep going. Every day is tough but we stand together and keep the routine going.
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“Ella will win this battle.” Arabella lost her mother last year to suicide, with William adding he feels she is watching down on her with pride.
He added: “We had hit blip there for a few months but we have an excellent team in place now and by God they have Ella’s best interests at heart.
“That’s all we every wanted, wish mum was here to see her progress but I know in spirit she will be walking by her side holding her hand."
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