21-year-old Mackie has dreamt of wearing high heels since she was a little girl. Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy Spasticity Diplegia (CP) at age two and told she would never walk - makes this no easy task. But nothing will get in the way of her Cinderella moment. Mackie's CP affects her legs and her ability to walk. She has endured over 20 surgeries and more than 30 Botox procedures, as well as ongoing painful physical therapy.
Being part of Livewire has helped Mackie cope with years of hospital and treatment.
Livewire supports teens like Mackie who live with a chronic or serious health condition. It connects them with others who understand what they’re going through. It's a supportive community where teens can chat and openly share their experiences with their peers.
"I love the Livewire community so much!" Mackie says. "Livewire has helped me through so many challenging times in my life and I will always be grateful for the support and encouragement."
Hospital and treatment take teens away from their usual school and social connections which adds to their feelings of isolation, frustration and stress.
Mackie says Livewire creates those important connections that teenagers need and helps give them a break from all things medical.
There are so many fun and entertaining things to do and watch on Livewire, if I've had a tough day I can escape the reality for just a moment, chat it out, and have a laugh."
Mackie
The Livewire community has helped keep Mackie motivated to achieve her dream to walk in high heels.
My journey to go from wheels 2 heels began when I was eight years old and saw the most beautiful pair of shoes in a shop window. So i challenged myself to not only stay away from the wheelchair and walk, but to walk in high heels at my Year 12 formal
Mackie
Thanks to the support of her family, physio team and her own incredible hard work, Mackie achieved her dream to walk in a pair of high heels at her formal in 2020. She continues to rock a pair of high heels, ready for any event.
Today, Mackie takes any opportunity to walk down a red carpet and show off her high-heels, and continues to defy all odds through Cinderella moments thanks to Starlight and Livewire!
Livewire has helped me on my mission and encouraged and inspired me as I show people that with a little determination and persistence nothing is impossible. Watch out world: give a girl the right pair of shoes and she'll conquer the world.