A heartwarming moment unfolded at the CochraneNow studio when young Brielle Thomson arrived wearing her brand new robotic legs, marking a major milestone in a journey the entire community has been following.
For Brielle’s mom, Michelle, the past month has been nothing short of life changing.
"It's just incredible because to see my daughter actually walking, taking a lot of steps, it's life changing," Michelle said. "I am so grateful to everyone for being part of our journey. My whole family will be forever grateful."
Brielle received her Trexo robotic walking device about a month ago, and Michelle says the progress has been faster than she ever imagined.
"When she trialed at the Children's Hospital, it took her about seven weeks to initiate 40 or 50 per cent of the steps. This time, within just three to five days, she was already initiating 40 per cent, that's huge," she explained. "Her trunk control and core strength are improving, and she’s even started sitting on her own, which hasn’t really happened before."
The first public outing with the Trexo was to Cochrane Toyota, where Michelle says the reaction was priceless.
"People were just like, ‘Wow, this is amazing.’ You see their faces and they're just so happy. It warms my heart knowing so many people care and helped make this happen."
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Looking ahead, Michelle says Brielle will continue with intensive therapies alongside using the Trexo, and the community is still rallying behind her.
"People are still donating bottles to help cover therapy costs. I’m not going to stop until my daughter is where she’s supposed to be. I’ll do everything in my power to help her and advocate for her."
Brielle’s journey began with a massive local fundraising effort earlier this year, and now, the sight of her walking into a room is proof of just how powerful community kindness can be.