Preschooler Overcomes Paralysis to Walk at Graduation, Inspiring Hearts

Estella Henderson, a 5-year-old girl diagnosed with alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC), a rare condition causing episodes of paralysis, dystonia, and extreme pain, defied the odds and walked at her preschool graduation despite experiencing partial paralysis. Estella's condition, caused by a mutation on her ATP1A3 gene, leads to unpredictable episodes that can last up to nine days and result in brain degeneration. Her mother, Lacey Henderson, described Estella's determination and resilience as she walked with her class, sang songs, and danced in her own way. The family is raising funds to find a cure for Estella's specific form of AHC, which could potentially save her from brain degeneration and death.