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Matilda DuncanYoung British ballerina, victim of cerebral palsy
Country:
 Great Britain |
Content:
- Matilda Duncan Biography
- A Difficult Journey
- The Power of Will
- A Journey to Parenthood
- A Hidden Condition
- A Life-Changing Surgery
- Pursuing Her Dream
Matilda Duncan Biography
Matilda Duncan, a young British ballerina, is a victim of cerebral palsy. The condition, which is surrounded by many myths, is often seen as a severe sentence by the public. However, Matilda's story proves that the power of will and determination can overcome any illness, no matter how daunting it may seem at first glance.
A Difficult Journey
In her pink outfit and ballet shoes, six-year-old Matilda Duncan looks just as cute and charming as her fellow students at the English National Ballet School. However, upon closer inspection, you'll notice something unusual on her ankles - and only then will you realize that Matilda has a long and challenging history. The braces supporting her ankles serve as a reminder that just seven months ago, Matilda could barely walk, let alone dance.
The Power of Will
Surprisingly strong for such a young girl, Matilda's spirit and determination, along with a complex surgical operation funded by kind-hearted individuals, not only led to a miraculous recovery but also secured her a place in one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country and the world. Matilda's mother, Rachel Knowles, admits that her daughter has always dreamt of ballet. Her father taught Matilda that nothing is impossible for her and that she can always achieve her dreams. Unfortunately, they couldn't simply ignore the medical obstacles.
A Journey to Parenthood
Difficulties began for Knowles and her spouse even before Matilda's birth. The main struggle was related to conceiving a child, as Knowles' existing condition greatly affected her fertility. In 2002, Knowles underwent her first course of IVF. After six unsuccessful attempts and a tragic miscarriage, Rachel finally learned of her successful pregnancy in early 2008. The reward for their long suffering came in the form of twins, Matthew and Matilda. Born ten weeks ahead of schedule via cesarean section, Matilda had heart problems, and Matthew had to be resuscitated. However, the doctors managed to handle everything.
A Hidden Condition
Raising two children simultaneously proved to be quite challenging, which is why Rachel didn't immediately suspect Matilda had more serious health issues. Cerebral palsy was diagnosed when Matilda was 18 months old. The disease impeded her ability to control her muscles, and her mother feared that she would be permanently confined to a wheelchair. Matilda did spend some time in a wheelchair, but she refused to let it hinder her physical development and began actively using special walkers. Through training and specialized treatment, Matilda made progress in controlling her body. However, she still had a long way to go, and the walkers remained a necessity.
A Life-Changing Surgery
It was only last year that Rachel learned about a special operation that could significantly improve her daughter's condition. Unfortunately, the surgery came with a hefty price tag. Kind-hearted people came to Matilda's aid after her story was published in the press, and they managed to raise the necessary £40,000. In May, Matilda underwent the operation, and within two weeks, she could move around with crutches. After six weeks, she took her first steps without any assistance.
Pursuing Her Dream
Currently, Matilda is undergoing regular training at the English National Ballet School in London. The training schedule here can be daunting even for adults, as the demands on ballerinas are quite rigorous, with no age-related leniency. Matilda trains with utmost dedication, showcasing impressive results. Against the strict prohibition, her mother often observes her daughter's practices and rejoices that her little girl has finally fulfilled her cherished dream.
