Cheerleading rivalries are one of the oldest forms of rivalries. However, Rockridge and Rock Island School cheerleaders came together for a noble cause. Although both the teams are fiercely competitive on the ground, they brushed aside their sporting indifferences for Padilla.

Rock Island Cheerleader Cecilia ‘Ceci’ Padilla received $1000 for a new wheelchair. The team mates did not want her to feel bound for her physical condition. Thus, they came up with a plan to satiate her excitement in all these years.

Cecilia Padilla – The Special Member of the Squad

Cecilia, fondly known as ‘Ceci’ is one of the most excited members of the squad. Padilla suffers from a rare disease called Spina Bifida. However, her physical condition does not stop her from cheering the team. She started rooting for Rocky Island since her freshman year. Thus, the sweet gesture of helping with a special gift will surely do a world of good to Padilla.

Qctimes, shared the feeling of her mother towards the wonderful initiative:

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“After watching Ceci cheer for the past four years and seeing how invested she is, we knew we had to do something to get her a (wheelchair) that would help her move quicker, keep up with her team and continue to do what she loves,” said Alexis Leihsing, Padilla’s mother.

“She’s currently using her power wheelchair and she does a great job with it, but this could change things immensely for her in college and even further down the road.” 

The Head Coach of the cheerleading team, Joey Stanforth, felt that they raised more money than expected. However,both the teams clicked photographs and spend some quality time after Tuesday’s surprise. It’s always good to see rival teams joining hands and helping each other.

An Emotional Surprise Altogether

The surprise became very emotional for Padilla and her family members. Padilla thanked the entire squad for such a wonderful surprise. Moreover, the community works together and helps each other in times of trouble. Also, Padilla is a very special member of the squad and the team looked elated after helping her. Her family members also had to go through a lot during this period. Hopefully, they can keep raising funds for her treatment as well.

Rock Island Cheerleader Defies Odds and Still Stands Strong After 55 Surgeries

The young girl had to go through 81 surgeries during her treatment. Her family members did a fantastic job of keeping their patience during the tough phase. Hopefully, she will continue to fight her battle, and people should come forward and help them as much as they can.

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