CP Won't Stop 12-Year-Old Musician, Student

In a heartwearming story out of Pittsburgh, a young man with athetoid cerebral palsy recently received the "Yes I can!" award from the Council for Exceptional Children at its annual convention and expo. There is no end to 12-year-old Mark Steidl's accomplishments. While he has no use of his arms or legs and has difficulty with balance and coordination and must rely on a feeding tube, Mark is an exceptional student who learned to use electronic communication devices at the age of three and is therefore able to function in a normal classroom setting. By touching a switch on his wheelchair with his head, he is able to complete homework and other tasks through his laptop.

Mark learned to read at age 4 and though he cannot physically play any instruments, has composed music, performed in children's theater productions specifically for performers using communication devices, and regularly attends music camp. He is also beginning music lessons with a teacher who is trained in special education and electronic methods.

Click to read more about this awesome kid and his triumphs despite cerebral palsy!