Fearless Olivia Towles refuses to let her cerebral palsy get in the way of her ambitions.
The seven-year-old from Kentucky, USA, was video enthusiastically belting out the Star Spangled Banner in front of an appreciative baseball crowd.
Olivia, who finds it hard for her to walk and talk due to the muscular condition, fearless strides out onto the home plate – supported by her mom Courtney and big Brother Kingston – before giving her rousing rendition.
Olivia Towles with her aunt Marie Towles on the pitch. T&T Creative Media
She had been honoured with the opportunity to open the Lexington Legends’ South Atlantic League Playoff series after club officials heard about her singing at her school.
Inspired by her spirit, they invited her down to open the game.
And the jubilant crowd responded – giving her a huge standing ovation.
Olivia’s aunt, Marie Towles captured the heart-warming moment. She said: “Olivia had originally asked if she could sing for some of the staff at Simmons Elementary School in Versailles, Kentucky.
“When she performed, staff had expected her to sing Twinkle Little Star or Mary Had A Little Lamb.
“But Olivia belted out The Star-Spangled Banner. And every word of it at that.
Olivia Towles after receiving a standing ovation from the crowd. T&T Creative Media
“Among her audience was the school safety officer, Officer Steve Sutton.
“Officer Sutton was so impressed that he told a friend who happens to be affiliated with Minor League Baseball team, the Lexington Legends, and in no time, Olivia was asked to perform for game one of the South Atlantic League Playoffs.”
Describing the moment she witnessed her niece perform, Marie said: “Without an ounce of fear and full of patriotism, she sang our nation’s anthem. We are so proud of her.”
Story courtesy of T&T Creative Media