Grand Rapids Girl Dreams Big at Dance Studio

9-Year-Old with a Disability is Proof to Never Stop Dreaming

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A Grand Rapids 9-year-old is proof that no matter what, you should always follow your dreams.

Born with a disability, Danie Neuhaus, is dancing through life thanks to her determination, the support of her mother and the passion of a dance coach who saw so much potential.

At first glance you’ll notice her infectious smile.

She points her toes like a ballerina, but Danie uses more than just her two feet to propel her on the dance floor.

She also has a walker.

“She has hypoplasia of the cerebellum and basically what that is it, the cerebellum is part of the brain that controls your motor functions, so she doesn’t have any natural balance,” explained Danie’s mother, Tonya Neuhaus.

Danie was first introduced to dance last winter at ‘Dreams Come True Dance Studio.’

“Every week she would have lessons, everything I would ask of her she would do it and then exceed it,” said the dance studio’s owner and a coach, Kayla Shorma.

It’s fair to say Danie is a natural.

“Even if she couldn’t get up and dance she was always rocking and moving her head to the beat and the music,” said Tonya.

Following nine weeks of 30-minute lessons, Danie and her duet partner performed at routine at a dance recital in April.

“There was a moment in the dance when Elena unhooked Danie from her walker. They did this lift and danced on their own… and in that moment the crowd just roared,” said Shorma.

Always a determined little girl, dance is just another avenue for Danie to express herself.

She is living proof to other children with disabilities to always dream big.

“I want everybody to know, and I think Danie does too, that no matter what your ability is you can do anything you are determined to do,” said Tonya.

If you’re interested in learning more about the dance studio or signing your child up: http://www.dctdance.com/