Makayla Noble, the Texas high school cheerleader who was paralyzed in a freak accident while practising for homecoming, had a "mentally and physically exhausting day" as she began a new course of physical and occupational therapy.
The 17-year-old Prosper resident suffered a severe spinal cord injury on September 20 this year that left her paralyzed from the chest down and unable to move her hands.
The teenager spent several weeks in hospital and a rehabilitation facility before finally being allowed to move back home. But she is currently undergoing therapy to improve her range of movement.
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"Wow what a day Mak has had!" the family said in an update posted to the Facebook group Makayla's Fight, which currently has around 53,000 members.
"1st day of OT and PT was mentally and physically exhausting, very challenging and a dose of reality, bit of a smack in the face if you will but she realizes this is a starting point and lots of work to do from here!"
The family said in occupational therapy—which helps patients with their ability to do everyday tasks and actions—Noble was tasked with trying to put on a shirt.
"This was very challenging and tiring but she did her best!" the family said.
In physical therapy, Noble had to try and sit up on her own, which the family said was "much more" difficult than she expected.
In a video clip that shows Noble trying to perform the task, the therapist says to the teenager, "You tell me when you want me to jump in and help," to which the teenager replies, "Let me struggle."
Hundreds of people replied to the post, many of whom praised Noble's determination and courage.
One Facebook user, Kellee Shepherd Spangle, said: "Your willingness to share and be vulnerable is so admirable and inspiring. Your fierce determination and fighting spirit is unmatched. 'Let me struggle' you said. Great gains are coming your way because you are adamantly working for them!!! Rest well tonight!!"
Another Facebook user, Raigan Smith, said the video brought her to tears.
"Having kids who have had to struggle and fight to overcome milestones like sitting up and walking I see a fight in Mak like I have in my own," she wrote. "The strength and strong will to give it all they have to show others they can absolutely overcome! I see this in your girl.
"She's a fighter! And goodness is she ever a light for so so many. Keep pressing, sweetest girl! Your struggle will be your story. And man will it ever change lives! Already has."
Makayla Noble, the 17-year-old high school cheerleader who was paralyzed in a freak tumbling accident.Makayla Noble, the 17-year-old high school cheerleader who was paralyzed in a freak tumbling accident.Cedarbook Media
