Paralysis Didn’t Stop Me Becoming A Ballet Dancer | TRULY

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A 17-YEAR-OLD girl with paralysed arms has sworn that she’ll never let her disability stop her from dancing. Sarah Todd Hammer, from Atlanta, was just eight years old when she developed acute flaccid myelitis, a rare neurological condition which left her unable to move her arms and hands. But despite how many small difficulties she faces day-to-day, she refuses to let her disability hold her back from making impressive accomplishments. At just 11 years old. Sarah Todd published her first auto-biographical book ‘5k, Ballet and a Spinal Cord Injury’, and has published another two books since. She also continues to dance and choreographs moves to adapt to her disability. Follow her story here: / sarahtoddhammer
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[@SarahToddHammer]

Thank you so much for sharing my story, Barcroft!! :)

[@LeslieMessick]

You are the perfect example of ambition and inspiration. 💖

[@jasonbasurto889]

You are amazing! Lots of love 😊

[@manga_kita]

Keep being a great inspiration to many of us Sarah💕

[@latanyabradford8025]

😍😘💜 beautiful

[@2saintsss]

This is probably a long shot, but I noticed you live in my area based on the route taken to the dance studio. I'd love to photograph you sometime if you'd ever be open to it!

[@JordanJSparks]

For having paralyzed arms, can we give this lady a HUGE shoutout for her beautiful posture and decolatage! Beautiful from a ballet perspective.

[@SarahToddHammer]

Jordan Sparks thank you!

[@JordanJSparks]

@@SarahToddHammer awe yay you saw my comment! I shared your story with my subscribers, The Sparkly Family

[@SarahToddHammer]

Jordan Sparks aww you’re so nice!! I appreciate your kind words very much! :)

[@jonathannoesges1435]

She has paralyzed shoulders. She can her biceps and triceps

[@SarahToddHammer]

Jo No my arms are in fact paralyzed

[@lauralehtosalo3415]

She published 3 books at 17!! WOW

[@SarahToddHammer]

Thank you!!

[@jenniferstarzec1044]

Right? She published the first one at age 11 and the second at 14!!

[@amandawarner7241]

I remember the little girl that danced at my studio and was 3 years younger than me but her smile lit up the whole studio. I remember the day she got sick and hearing she was in the hospital. I remember her coming to dance in a wheelchair and now here she is. This girl truly loves to dance and makes everyone around her happier

[@SarahToddHammer]

Amanda Warner aww Amanda!! I remember you!! Thank you for this sweet comment!!

[@amandawarner7241]

Stay positive and amazing

[@preciousogie9852]

She wrote an entire book typing with one finger? If this isn’t inspirational I don’t know what is

[@EliteXtasy]

There was a guy who wrote an entire book with one eye.

[@forevertheaii]

@@EliteXtasy don't ruin the mood. It's still an amazing thing she did.🙃

[@vildeve818]

Didn't dhe actually write THREE books

[@grayskindablue]

Three books. Yeah.

[@icturner23]

It’s impressive that she wrote a book as a child. Typing with one finger is neither here nor there. Most people only use two, and on an iPad like I’m using now I only use one.

[@purple_engineer]

Love the Tommy Hilfiger adaptable clothing. Wish more cheaper retailers adopted that for the disabled

[@icturner23]

Lyra M I didn’t get the impression that it came like that. I think they’ve had it adapted.

[@jenniferstarzec1044]

icturner23 they actually did come like that!! Tommy Hilfiger has their own adapted line :) & i agree that more retailers should follow suit!

[@icturner23]

Jennifer Starzec Wow, I’m impressed.

[@tierracaccitolo]

Target is starting to

[@ashleyburbank3129]

icturner23 actually Tommy Hilfiger does sell those clothes adaptive but they are quite expensive

[@natashamerline]

Such a beautiful soul. Very blessed to have a supportive mother!

[@kiarabravi3963]

Natasha Merline ojo

[@genevievebrusie6754]

i remember when that tommy hilfiger line first came out and it truly brought me to tears to see a major brand embracing customers with disabilities and giving them genuine fashionable options for clothing. it makes me so happy to see that those clothes are helping her so much and are allowing her and others like her to be more independent. it's the little things people!

[@HappiestSadGuy]

Instantly, after reading the title, my thoughts were: "Shouldn't PARALYSIS be something that would stop you from being a ballet dancer"?! But the video was sweet

[@Caitzeee]

HappiestSadGuy I was confused at first too!

[@veraaalto9499]

Omg me too

[@jenniferbrowne4030]

U r special young lady God bless u continue wat u r doing, u inspire millions of us aroung the world thnx

[@Buckle02]

I thought this as well. Shouldn't have assumed the paralysis affected her legs

[@amisharam]

May God bless her mom

[@Tomipeace13]

I have disabilities and I thought I couldn't be a doctor. My service Dog has changed my life!

[@hdbdhdhdhndjd3092]

Tomipeace13 well done

[@melissasmith6762]

I just hope you're not one of the types that goes around scowling at people that notice your dog in public.

[@rebeccagarza1532]

That’s amazing! I’m so happy you didn’t put away your dream! Hopefully you’ll be able to help future generations get better! P.S. Melissa, “Noticing” a service dog can be *extremely* dangerous. When a service dog is distracted it may miss cues signaling something like a seizure, or misguide a blind person. Simply pointing it out (with a finger) making eye contact, or waving to it/talking to it can make it lose focus if it wasn’t professionally trained. The people upset aren’t trying to be bullies, but instead trying to stay safe. Their life is in the dog’s paws. It is also important to put yourself in their shoes. Getting stared constantly while trying to do something like shop at the grocery store will also take a toll on you. I mean all of this gently, trying to explain, not to start a comment war. Please consider this information before acting dismissively.

[@novamcclain2605]

@@rebeccagarza1532 Well said!

[@918melissa]

I was diagnosed with transverse myelitis at 18 ... by some miracle, my body recovered by itself, but I spent over a year with very limited mobility, breathing difficulties, loss of bladder control, intense muscle cramps and zero balance or coordination. Wishing you so much love!

[@DylanFowler]

Thanks for sharing your story and those magnetic clothes, it's gonna help a lot of people out there!

[@shelbijackson5286]

The clothes aren't hers. It's a brand she just has some of their clothes

[@marnikramer3026]

Oh this made my cry. 3 books with just one finger since the age of 11, dances like she doesn’t have a different story to show, she’s so sweet AND she is literally going places. Proud mom, proud supporter.

[@texasbeauty1991]

I truly love the fact that she still has that beautiful smile after everything .

[@eyeHATEuall85]

Quite honestly, your disability actually makes you more beautiful! When you dance, there's a grace about you that I don't even see in "normal" dancers. And I'd like to take this opportunity to quote one of my favorite bands: "You never know how strong you are, until strong is the only choice left".

[@cruse1177]

It does

[@deborahkelly1489]

First of all , tell your mom she is STILL young and beautiful ! Second, YOU are an inspiration. Thankyou for sharing your story. And remember to keep on dancing !

[@julialovegym8953]

She is so mature , humble,inspirational ,dedicated and just amazing

[@jennifer9084]

She is a go getter. I Feel like my mood as improved slightly after watching this video.

[@itsmrclla7812]

I spy a 1D merch right there

[@SarahToddHammer]

itsmrclla but of course!!! Haha 😂

[@cheena...]

same

[@karltheraccoon7502]

Wait what? I'm missing something

[@karltheraccoon7502]

itsmrclla never mind I see

[@itsmrclla7812]

@@karltheraccoon7502 yupp

[@RAWatson1989]

There's literally no excuse not to share your stories. This young lady is extraordinary in mind, body, and spirit; for her to have 3 published works is a reminder to just keep pushing for your dreams

[@shae-lynelizabeth4830]

If this doesn’t make you thankful for the privileges you have I don’t know what will! This girl is defying the odds 💕

[@eeeeeeee70]

I personally had a stroke at age 12 which caused me to be completely paralysed in my left side this really brought down my confidence and really pulled me into a state of depression so seeing this lightens my heart that I can finally see others like me (I am able to walk now with the help of a walking stick) I give all my love out to this woman! ❤❤❤❤❤

[@gordanramsay1997]

Wow, and she still smiles through all of this. She makes me look so selfish for what I have. I take everything for granted, such as a healthy body. God bless her❤

[@applesidertea]

i love the way she articulates when she dances ballet. she is truly talented. and that smile is healing.

[@artisticipse]

If you have a goal or dream, don't ever let anything come in between it no matter how tough it may be. Put your mind to it and you will get it done. It may be difficult and you might have to work around certain things but it sure will be worth it. But first you have to believe you can! Than the action comes subsequently.

[@jawadvlog86]

✌🖒

[@AJ-nt8cc]

What an awesome comment. Last year i lost 111lbs. And i gained it all back. Iv been so depressed i dont know what to do. Im trying again. Any words to help me.

[@artisticipse]

Chunky A. Yesss try again!! It'll be hard at first but you can do ittt!

[@AJ-nt8cc]

@@artisticipse thank you so much. If you dont mind me asking..what nationality are you?

[@artisticipse]

Chunky A. Oh ofcourse! I'm Moroccan 🙃

[@ellioshiem7892]

THE SHOCK AND PAIN FOR MOM SO AWFUL. SHE MUST OF BEEN SO UPSET BECAUSE SARAH IS HER PRECIOUS BABY... TRULY A GREAT MOM. TRULY AN AMAZING BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTER......🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@sophiealexander2489]

"dance as if the whole world is watching "❤

[@gincandido8617]

I want to be her best friend 💕 I love her courage and determination. 😚

[@XxMidnightRain18xX]

I had TVM around 18m old, they said i would never walk again but im 21 and im walking/ running. I was paralyzed from my ribs down. People take small things for granted, you're kicking butt girl friend!

[@Isa-cr7fd]

Tommy Hilfiger is my fave brand and I’m glad they cater to everyone. His clothing may be expensive for some but the quality is perfection and it’s great to know I support a brand for doing this. if you can afford it I encourage you!!!

[@SeptemberBluez]

what i don’t get is how anybody could dislike any of these videos🤔 what’s not to like?

[@laurenferrell4445]

When she talked about taking a shower for the first time by herself really got me! God gives us our lives of “normalcy” that we take for granted everyday and something as simple as taking a shower for me is monumental for her. God bless her, she’s amazing and so sweet!

[@irenedontoh3539]

The things we take for granted. Bless her.

[@annaarcher6424]

She’s so inspiring SHE WROTE A BOOK AT 11 she’s smart as hell

[@teendancer1082]

She got to meet One Direction?!?!?! Lucky girl!!!!!❤️ so proud of her!!!!🥰

[@blackangel6003]

God bless her and her wonderful mother. Beautiful story. May she continue to shine. 🖤🖤🖤

[@MsKJackson831]

Jesus... what an incredible reminder that your life can change in a matter of one day. What a strong young woman

[@SarahToddHammer]

Kay Jack thank you!!

[@melodyyy7954]

She is literally so pretty 😍

[@donaantel5940]

I was so many of these videos. I am simply amazed at how people with disabilities have a better outlook on life. People don’t realize how lucky they are not to have a debilitating disability. God Bless you.

[@jenniferstarzec1044]

Such a perfect representation of my best friend, co-author, “little sister” ❤️ Thank you for this video, Barcroft! ST, this perfectly demonstrates your drive, determination, beauty, and maturity. I love you SO SO much and I’m so happy you got the opportunity to share your story this way!!!

[@SarahToddHammer]

Jennifer Starzec AWWWW JEN!!! I LOVE YOU ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@jenniferstarzec1044]

Sarah Todd Hammer LOVE YOUUUUU ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@amymiller9775]

shes so sweet, i feel for her

[@kaiyanachan9273]

Oh my gosh! I live in Georgia (not telling where, though) and my father has a spinal cord injury. This girl is also really inspirational. I don't think I could deal with paralysis the same way.

[@MRuby1234]

Standing ovation for Sarah! She has persevered and accomplished so much early in her life. Even though she has limitations, she does not let them stop her which is amazing. I wish her nothing but success, happiness and joy as she continues forward in achieving her set goals and aspirations. :)

[@_dudeinyafridge_318]

Well I think she is beautiful with or without the “🎁disability! she’s doing far more then a lot people who are completely able. This was lovely to see🙌🏼

[@sj4iy]

The sister of one of my best friends was paralyzed from the waste down by this disease when she was 14. She's in her late 20's now and has gone on to do some amazing things, including playing wheelchair basketball in the paralympics.

[@Lizybeth93]

Meeting one direction and Harry Styles holding her book she wrote is a life goal! I have a disability but a bit different than hers but I’m still amazed by her!

[@caitlinbartlett971]

i love her bed decor

[@goldenspark4life]

Disabled people are the strongest people. These videos really make me feel stupid for being all down in the dumps over stupid stuff like boys and my job and crap like that. She has some limitations but is sooo positive and happy and that definitely motivates me to change my outlook on life as well.

[@jimfowler5930]

Love you and what you have accomplished and do currently. After a stroke 1.5 years ago, and seeing this video, I feel like a big baby. Thank you for this NEEDED attitude correction for me....you ARE a blessing. Don't concern yourself with the 149 naysayers above, they have apparently never had any "eye opening/teaching situations" in their lives, YET. You are blessed!!

[@SarahToddHammer]

Jim Fowler Thank you so very much! I wish you all the best in your recovery and am so glad I brought some positivity in your life!!

[@elizabethkennedy2561]

I could imagine her as an amazing choreographer in the future as a job!

[@SarahToddHammer]

Richie Tozier thank you!

[@TheDblRnbw]

She has such a beautiful smile & an amazing light about u. There will never be a person that looks (or stares) at u for ur disability... It's ur light that intrigues them to compulsively stare at true beauty.🥰after all it is difficult to come by... 🤩🤗😍 👏🏻🙏🏻God bless u & ur family 🙏🏻👏🏻 May u find love & happiness! Best Wishes & much love💖thank you for sharing your story with the world. Truly inspirational! 💞🤩

[@carolheverin8814]

What a sweet, smart and strong young lady!

[@hollydonovan2273]

She is so sweet! Such a strong light coming from her!

[@mina4298]

She’s stunning

[@zoebasina1804]

She has such a big and bright smile! We all need to learn from her how to love life

[@lightningstar6668]

Such an amazing positive young lady

[@luvjc77]

What a sweet, talented young lady you are! I'm sure you'll accomplish everything in life that you set your mind to, look what you've done so far. Best of luck...keep being a great role model for people with disabilities.

[@rhyfelwrDuw]

Beautiful girl with a beautiful story! No bitterness there! Inspirational!

[@lizzy4827]

Aww she's such an awesome person :( makes me very sad that we didn't find a way to fix this yet

[@arushi1031]

Someone:you can't do this .. Sarah:watch me 🤘 True inspiration girl.♥️

[@MR-zq5gt]

I can’t imagine going through this as a parent .. how traumatic for the family.. but she is so beautiful and strong .. what a beautiful woman

[@pque1257]

Wow she smiles through it all 😭😭😭🖤🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼

[@crimzonrayz3274]

I feel terrible watching this heartbroken i hope she can get better in the future right now hope she keeps fighting and has her head high why do good people have to go through such terrible events and diseases

[@Preettyzeee]

Shes a burst of sunshine and happiness🤗

[@harluquis1229]

Such an incredible story! I didn’t see not one man in here, I love it.

[@asukamayou6165]

Truly an inspiring story, good going girl ❤️🌟

[@martha9699]

She’s the definition of inspiration

[@andreawaite7978]

This story is inspiring. May god continue to bless you family especially your mom for doing such a wonderful job.

[@ivonned32]

Mom has been there for her all along. What a wonderful mom.

[@lanaelon]

I am a dancer too so this just goes to show how lucky I am as I have the ability to use my arms. I am so happy she's standing tall and still dancing like a pro!

[@JordanJSparks]

What an inspiring young Lady you are!

[@luuveon]

Welp, KZbin recommendations did it’s thing at the right moment, because right now, it is. April 19th 2020 so 10 years exactly after the moment and she is so much stronger and it is just so inspirational!!

[@sergiyradonezhsky634]

absolutely beautiful smile. makes even gloomy me look at the bright side.... truly inspiring... your story has moved me to tears miss.

[@alek14p]

Beautiful brave girl inside & out! God bless her, I couldn't imagine not having independence. We shouldn't take little things for granted. Her smile & attitude is amazing. People like this deserve a medal. I hope she'll keep pushing forward.

[@SarahToddHammer]

Thank you!

[@alek14p]

You're welcome😉 I have my own struggles & have a big heart for people going through hard things. I think we can grow & learn from others stories of determination.

[@alek14p]

I have just discovered you're the girl is this video! I have great admiration for you & have subscribed to your channel. Your story, although heartbreaking is equally heartwarming. I send nothing but love, support, & best wishes your way. I hope to follow your journey & sucess😊

[@florencegirard3494]

Very beautiful girl!!! Congratulations for your book❤️

[@djsews]

What a beautiful girl. God bless you and your family.

[@WarXie]

She’s so cool and beautiful

[@ginamariemckee5250]

Your personality and drive are so admirable and draw me in. Continued blessings to you!

[@annamaria1003]

❤️❤️ You’re beautiful, you’re strong. I’m so sorry the doctor didn’t believe you or listen to your parents.

[@amystabenow1189]

She is so graceful. I admire her gumption...

[@TinkLuvsHarleys]

Oh MyGoodness !!!!! This young lady just made me smile soul deep , what a true inspiration AND her amazing attitude towards life in creating a happy life filled with so much joy ,her eyes speak directly to your heart and makes me smile knowing this young lady will not let anything interfere as she takes leaps and bounds chasing her dream , her journey will be extraordinary with happiness and laughter ,joy and love.

[@Investigativebean]

As a mother, I cannot imagine. I would have been absolutely terrified. I’m so pleased to see that you’ve been able to adapt to things. You’re very resilient.

[@swethaparthasarthy2494]

All the best dear.May God bless you with happiness and love for long time

[@TheBeingReal]

The smile Sarah seems to always have is infectious. She’ll do well in life. ☺️

[@fredhoy6697]

Thank you ladies for sharing your story. The human condition never ceases to amaze me. To my way of thinking you and others are not didabled, but instead, other abled. If that makes sense to you. I'm proud of you.

[@Margalus]

Wow, what a positive attitude!

[@nitsamichael1436]

What a wonderful girl and mother.

[@lakshmimuralidharan8294]

Amazing girl! A true inspiration! Let many miracles happen in your life. Many blessings to you! Lobe your mom's positivity. Long live! Live happy!

[@gracepetzoldt7021]

When I tell you my mouth DROPPED when she explained how she write her book!! That is incredible and she is so amazing

[@concertvip6221]

What kind of person takes time out of their day to leave a thumbs down on such an inspirational video ? Apparently 184 tortured souls thats who … very sad. Anyway , know this ……… You are amazing !! 👍

[@sunburnz]

What a beautiful person! ❤️

[@singngirl29]

You are so inspirational thank you for your dedication to stay strong and believe in yourself it helps me a lot❤️❤️

[@auntmayme8119]

What a beautiful story with a supportive mom. Bless you both!

[@ashokveer9603]

Wow she's so beautiful

[@briannacollie2742]

This story is powerful. She is such a beautiful and strong young woman.

[@Pendragon981]

Such a beautiful person, full of life with a fiery soul.. a heart of pure light.

[@kristinhotchkiss8870]

She has a fantastic smile and a great attitude

[@Leon.27.06]

she's so beautiful 💕

[@morgboi6111]

God bless her 🙏🏾❤️she’s so positive

[@alala8501]

She is having fun with it, this is all that matters.