Arielle Is Dancing Again After a Life-Threatening Spinal Injury

Thanks to pediatric neurosurgeons, a team of specialized therapists and her own determined spirit, the big-hearted 11-year-old is thriving.

Eleven-year-old Arielle has had to overcome some pretty big hurdles in her short life. In 2020, Arielle and her mom, Shakira, were driving to her school when they were involved in a head-on collision. Shakira was transported to the hospital, unconscious. And Arielle was taken to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta with life-threatening injuries.

“Arielle had a fractured femur, a large scalp laceration and a significant spinal injury,” says Children’s neurosurgeon David Wrubel, MD. “In 50% of cases, people with this type of injury don’t survive. Arielle was very lucky.”

Arielle required a series of surgeries, including a complex procedure to stabilize her head and spine. Then came the arduous recovery.

“She had to learn how to walk again, dress herself and do other everyday tasks,” says Shakira. “Thanks to speech, physical, occupational and music therapists at Children's, and many hours of hard work, Arielle is back to her normal self.”

Today, Arielle enjoys dancing, acting and playing the violin. She’s also an active volunteer and started her own charity called Ari’s Angels that collects and distributes care packages to kids at Children’s. “Arielle is a true miracle and wants to spread light, love and kindness to other children,” says Shakira.

“Dr. Wrubel and Dr. Bruce saved my life. Giving back to Children’s is the least we can do,” adds Arielle.