Dad noticed son feeling uneasy to take a step with walker—his response was just what the son needed

It can be mind-shattering to learn to live with a disability or terminal condition. It alters a major part of a child’s life and can become scary and demotivating in the long run. This is why a parent’s support and strength work wonders to keep one going. A dad named Chase Harris (@chase_cashman) revealed that his 7-year-old son, Cash, had a condition called Spina bifida, due to which he had to use a walker and learn to walk, as stated by TODAY. As the little boy tried to control his fears and make his way to taking a step, his discomfort got the better of him. Nevertheless, the dad who noticed rendered a response that helped him push through in the most powerful way. 

According to Mayo Clinic, Spina bifida is a condition wherein the spine and spinal cord don’t form properly during pregnancy, leaving a high risk of paralysis and other neural tube disorders. While the exact cause is not highlighted, it is likely due to genetic, nutritional and environmental risk factors. It affects mobility, alongside bowel movements and the bladder, and can also cause orthopedic issues. The Harris’ discovered long before Cash’s birth that he would have to deal with this condition. Nevertheless, they were determined to give him the best life, just like they would for any other child. The 7-year-old has been learning and getting treatment and training to be independent despite the spina bifida. 

In one of the videos, Chase is seen standing with his son as Cash holds fast to his walker, attempting to take a step. The little boy took deep breaths as he convinced himself to make the move. “Don’t be scared,” he told himself, trying his best to take that first step. Noticing his uneasiness, his dad shared an encouraging exchange. He started guiding his son slowly and confidently. “Don’t let your feet get caught behind it. You have to keep your feet in front. Come on, you got it,” Chase remarked. He observed his 7-year-old as he continued to take deep breaths.

“Remember, we don’t create monsters that don’t exist,” the dad added. Listening to his father’s valuable insight, Cash knew he could overcome his fear. He slowly began to take a step with his walker. Recalling intently every detail his father had taught him, the little boy began to realize that this wasn’t impossible. As they moved along the path, slowly and cautiously, Chase didn’t stop encouraging and crediting him for making it through each step. When they reached the curb where Cash needed to get down, he stopped again. “Come on, the more we think, the harder it gets,” Chase calmly said. “Just go for it, I got you,” he added.

To that little boy, every word his dad spoke made a difference. It gave him the strength to try. He finally made it down the curb, his dad still by his side. “There you go, nice work. That’s what real bosses do, man,” he exclaimed, while congratulating his son. In another video, the dad helped Cash yet again as he tried to climb up a mattress laid on the ground. Calling it one of the “most difficult" trials for his son, he was still right there encouraging him throughout. People were moved by the dad’s soothing yet tough love that made all the difference. @cherylrose24 said, “God couldn’t have given him a better dad than you.” @michellehale752 added, “Both of you are doing it right. Way to go!”

You can follow Chase Harris (@chase_cashman) on TikTok for more content on parenting and motivation. 

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