Jennifer Matthews: Swimming, splashing, sliding, most kids love the water, and 11-year-old Sarah Grace is no different. But this actually physical therapy. She was born more than four months premature and weighed just over one pound. She was the smallest baby to ever survive at her hospital.
Teresa Harris: She literally was a miracle, half inch shorter than a Barbie doll.
Jennifer Matthews: And she has been beating the odds ever since. Sarah Grace was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age 2 and is now part of a study on how this underwater treadmill can help her build up her leg strength and walk better.
Don Morgan: It's a challenge. It'd be a challenge for anybody. They're demonstrating to themselves and to their families that, "Hey, look at what I've been able to do. I've gotten stronger. I've gotten fitter," and it's a wonderful thing to be proud of.
Jennifer Matthews: Dr. Don Morgan says the water resistance helps build leg muscles but doesn't strain the joints. Kids in the study have improved heart function and have more energy to walk.
Sarah Grace noticed a difference during a class trip to New York City.
Teresa Harris: We went down a flight of steps to use the restroom, and when we came back up, she was just taking them just like me. I couldn't believe it. I asked, "Baby, look what you're doing."
Jennifer Matthews: She dreams of someday becoming a nurse or teacher.
Sarah Grace: I'm more of like of an energetic person. I will either like help people when they need help.
Jennifer Matthews: And for a girl who couldn't even walk, and can now climb stairs, anything is possible. This is Jennifer Matthews reporting.
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