A walk to remember: NC grad with cerebral palsy steals show at graduation
A recent graduate of a North Carolina high school wowed his community, inspired peers and gave his family a lifelong memory to end the school year.
Christopher Cline has cerebral palsy, uses a wheelchair and is non-verbal. During the recent graduation ceremony at Richmond High School, Christopher stole the show with a display of resilience and strength that went on to touch people across the country.
With the help of physical therapists at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, Christopher stood up and walked across stage to receive his diploma with his best friend and twin sister, Caroline Cline.
Christopher can't talk, but his statement was among the loudest that night and garnered booming approval from the crowd.
"We thought he was just going to stand up," said Caroline of plans made during graduation practice. "But [Principal] Mr. Jim Butler was like 'we want him to walk.' We're like 'we'll make it happen.'"
Raider Stadium is known for being loud on Friday nights, but this eruption had a different meaning.
"I think it's really amazing how much it has grown," said Caroline of Christopher's story. "I feel like he does deserve it. People like him do need their voice getting out to different people."
Caroline said she went to prom with Christopher and they attend football games and school events together. She was interviewed on nationally syndicated K-LOVE radio and named the Good Kid of the Week.
She said this was not the furthest Christopher has walked, but these steps were the most important ones he's taken.
Becky Ward Campbell, Christopher's grandmother and guardian, was equally overcome with joy.
"It was one of the proudest moments of my life," Campbell said. "I tell him 'look how many people you have touched.'"
A social media post highlighting the feat received national attention and has gotten more than 3,500 shares and 300 comments.
"Christopher has taught me unconditional love and patience and to be more accepting of people who may be different," Campbell said.
Becky said Christopher likes going to school, attending Richmond football games, bowling and signing along with music.
