Learning to Walk: Better Late Than Never

Four Year Old Learns to Walk (Added: July 14, 2009)

As a four year old, Laura Vance is learning to walk. She has a disease called Spina Bifida, which means her legs are partially paralyzed. She's working hard to get moving on her own. (more)

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Learning to Walk: Better Late Than Never

Laura likes to be independent and do things herself, a trait that her physical therapist says will serve her well throughout her life.

By: Dana Wachter | TriCities.com
Published: July 14, 2009

Bristol, Tenn. -- The average person takes thousands of steps a day. Most of us learn to walk at about one year old. But for some people born with a disease called Spina Bifida, getting around is an everyday challenge.

The story above introduces a little girl from Bristol who may be a little behind, but she's working hard to get moving on her own.

Here' are a few facts about Spina Bifida from the National Institution of Neurological Disorders and Stroke:
--> No one quite knows where the disease comes from, but scientists suspect genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors play a role.

--> Symptoms can vary, and can range from minor physical problems to severe physical and mental disabilities.

--> It is important to note, however, that most people with Spina Bifida are of normal intelligence.

Here are links to learn more information about Spina Bifida:

http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/spina_bifida/detail_spina_bifida.htm
http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org
http://kidshealth.org/kid/health_problems/bone/spina_bifida.html

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