Kimberly Castillo, 20 years old, was born with Spina Bifida, which causes limited functioning of her legs. At 14 years old, Kimberly began working with Krista Burroughs, physical therapist at the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Outpatient Rehabilitation Center.
“One of the reasons I chose CHRISTUS Santa Rosa for my therapy is the aquatics therapy center,” said Kimberly. “When I’m in the water, I feel free and it makes me stronger.”
Kimberly has never let her condition stop her from setting and achieving goals. Although she depends on a wheelchair, Kimberly decided she would strive to walk across the stage at her high school graduation.
“My goal has always been to walk,” said Kimberly. “At times, it felt impossible, but I knew if I kept pushing myself, it could happen.”
With the end goal in mind, Krista and Kimberly worked hard to strengthen Kimberly’s body.
“I have loved working with Krista,” Kimberly added. “When I feel like giving up, or if I feel like a goal is unattainable, Krista always motivates me to push myself.”
After years of therapy and determination, Kimberly shocked family members and classmates as Krista assisted her in walking across the stage at the East Central High School Class of 2015 graduation ceremony.
“None of my classmates had ever seen me walk before, so everyone started cheering and clapping for me,” Kimberly said. “It was an amazing moment and a big accomplishment in my life. I’ve become much more confident, and I know I can accomplish anything I put my mind to.”
Kimberly is currently a student at San Antonio College. Her next big goal is to become a speech therapist for children.
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CHRISTUS Children's Foundation 
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