After having a stroke due to a blood clot in her brain, Erin O’Donnell was determined to learn to walk again so she could walk down Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom.
Stroke Survivor Learns to Walk Again to Walk Down Main Street U.S.A.
O’Donnell shared a compilation video on TikTok of her experience. She wrote in the video’s caption:
In 2018 I had a blood clot in my brain and had a stroke. I was paralyzed on the left side and had to relearn to walk again along with many other things. My family had a Disney vacation planned and my goal was to be able to walk down Main Street even if it was slow and with a walker. I worked my butt off and surprised my family be taking my first unassisted steps down Main Street in Disney! It was such a magical moment! Here’s a compilation of me relearning how to walk until my big moment.
The video starts with a screenshot of O’Donnell Tweeting on September 2, 2018, “I’m going to @WaltDisneyWorld in 54 days and my goal is to be able to walk down main street even if it’s slow and with the walker!”
Walt Disney World responded, “We can’t wait to see you in a short 54 days when your #DisneyCountdown is up! Sending you all of the virtual pixie dust!”
The rest of the video includes clips of O’Donnell’s physical therapy and walking practice, culminating in her unassisted steps down Main Street, complete with an “I’m Celebrating” button reading “Stroke Survivor.”
Watch O’Donnell’s video below.
Another feel-good story recently shared by Walt Disney World guests praised Cast Members and Reedy Creek Fire Department for their level of care in an emergency situation that took place on property.
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