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Foothills family raising funds for life-changing device for daughter

Claire Sonnenberg, 6, who has cerebral palsy, was able to take her first steps using a Trexo machine, which costs upwards of $44,000 and is not covered by insurance. 
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Six-year-old Claire Sonnenberg walks with her mom Stephanie using a Trexo device. Claire has cerebral palsy and is unable to walk on her own. The family is raising money to purchase a machine for Claire, as it is not covered by insurance.

A Foothills mom has started a fundraiser with the aim of purchasing a machine that would allow her daughter with cerebral palsy to walk on her own. 

Claire Sonnenberg, 6, was faced with lack of oxygen at birth, resulting in the condition that prevents her from talking, walking, playing and eating independently. 

Her mom Stephanie wrote on a GoFundMe page created this week that the family learned about a device called Trexo a year ago and has had the chance to rent it for Claire to try. 

"To watch Claire walk, to smile so big and look at her peers at eye level is so heart warming," wrote Stephanie. "To go for a walk around the block, and hold her hand, gives me emotions that I can’t even express.

"After six years, I never thought I would be given that opportunity, and now we have it. Now we walk hand and hand every morning as we go around the block."

The video below, posted to the page by Stephanie, shows Claire taking her first steps using the device, while surrounded by family and friends. 

According to the company's website, the Trexo is a robotic gait training device that works by gently moving a child's legs in a preset custom gait pattern. The machine is controlled by a trained adult using a tablet. 

Unfortunately, the cost to purchase the device and all necessary accessories is upwards of $44,000 and is not covered by insurance. 

Stephanie said being a parent to a child with special needs is expensive. 

"We have spent so many sleepless nights making life-changing decisions in hopes of giving Claire the best life we can," she said. "Walking is one of those decisions." 

The Sonnenbergs are reaching out with the hope the community can make this wish come true for their daughter and sister. Her mom wrote that she is falling in love with walking. 

To donate to 'Help Claire Walk,' click here

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