A Bundle of Joy

Pine Grove Middle’s Bundle of Joy

Written By: Kaylee Kopke Photography by: Eric Vinson

Allea Christopher was born 10 weeks premature. She was hospitalized in the NICU in Macon, Georgia, and then returned to South Georgia Medical Center before being discharged home. Nine months later she started receiving physical therapy; at 18 months old, she was officially diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Christopher began using her first wheelchair at 3 years old.

Having to endure such health problems at an early age can certainly bring down the spirits of any person, but not Christopher. On the contrary, she does not let anything stop her. According to her mother, Jessica Rhodes, Christopher has always been a happy and loving child. She enjoys laughing, singing country music, and being around her friends and family.

“She makes friends very easily and, thankfully, has always been accepted by her peers and loved by her teachers," Rhodes said.

When it comes to activities, no matter the hobby or sport, Christopher will do whatever it takes to participate in them. This love for sports all started with her love for Vikings football.

“Allea is a huge fan of the Lowndes High Viking football team and attends every home game," Rhodes said.

"She has always enjoyed watching the cheerleaders as well.”

When Christopher was 8 years old, she got the opportunity to participate in the Little Vikes Cheer Camp at Lowndes High School, which fanned the cheer spark into a flame.

“From that point on, she has always wanted to be a cheerleader,” Rhodes said.

Christopher is currently a cheerleader for Pine Grove Middle School and is considered their very own bundle of joy.

Christopher has also participated in various sport while growing up. In the fifth grade, she participated in Girls on the Run and completed a 5K. She is also in the Special Olympics, rides horses,

and plays baseball through the Miracle League.

“Allea does not allow her wheelchair to hinder her from participating in any activity," Rhodes said.

Christopher’s story is one that inspires many. She is not bound by her diagnosis or to her wheelchair. Her story just goes to show that it’s all about the perspective that you have on life. If you have a positive outlook on life and you don’t let anything hold you back, then you’ll be able to do all of the things that you love.