RIDLEY TOWNSHIP, Pa. (CBS) – A Ridley High School graduate overcame some major medical hurdles to walk across the stage this week.
Cole Steiner, 18, underwent three brain surgeries to treat Chiari malformation, a rare condition in which brain tissue extends into the spinal cord. He also underwent two spinal surgeries to treat severe scoliosis, in which his spine had a 120-degree curvature.
Steiner says he has undergone years of physical and occupational therapy, but through it all he has always maintained his positive attitude.
“It made me more resilient and stronger, gave me a lot more confidence and made me feel empathetic,” Steiner said.
His mother called him her medical miracle.
“His neurosurgeon at Children’s National Medical Center in DC is presenting Cole’s case all over the country, so he’s literally in a book,” said Cole’s mother Nicole Steiner. “His name is never given.”
Steiner graduated from high school on Tuesday and originally planned to attend the University of the Arts. With University of the Arts permanently closedhe now plans to study music at Temple University.
Madeleine Wright
