A pair of sisters have gone viral after their mom shared a video of the older sibling helping her younger sister, who has Down syndrome, with a dance routine.
Nine-year-old Gracie and three-year-old Riley had the audience in tears, their mom, Jennifer McCormick, from Boston, Massachusetts, said.
Riley has overcome a number of obstacles in her life, having been born with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease.
The three-year-old has undergone two open heart surgeries and had a pacemaker fitted, and her older sister has been there to support her every step of the way.
Riley has always looked up to Gracie, Jennifer said, and so when she saw her older sister dancing, she wanted to take part, too.
At their local dance class, Gracie has been assigned as Riley’s helper, and assists with practice when the pair are at home.
The viral moment, which took place on April 26, happened at the girls’ performing arts academy in Salem, Massachusetts, where they were undertaking a dress rehearsal.
After the group had sung “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” – which Riley signed – the sisters then performed their dance, which Jennifer captured on video.
She later shared the clip on social media, where the girls’ performance received an outpouring of love.
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Jennifer said: “It was such a special moment that had some in the audience in tears.
“It was just such a lovely dance. It made my heart just burst with happiness and pride for both of my lovely girls.
“I hope this video shows the world how a disability isn’t a bad thing.
“Riley has made our lives so full.
“She is so capable of so much.
“All she needs is a chance.
“She has made us all a better person – including Gracie, who has taken on this role as her big sister with pride.”