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10-year-old with a genetic disorder makes viral waves with her incredible talent

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Ekaterina 'Kate' Borodulkina is a 10-year-old painting prodigy, based in Moscow. Most remarkably, she lives with muscular dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy is an umbrella term that describes more than 30 genetic muscle diseases which, over time, lead to weakened muscles. In many cases, those living with the disorder aren't able to walk, or even breathe unassisted. 

Signs of the disorder began showing when Kate was just 3 months old, and today she needs a ventilator to breathe, cannot raise her arms and relies on an electronically powered wheelchair for mobility.


Is your child gifted despite a physical challenge? Tell us your story by emailing to chatback@parent24.com and we could publish your letter. Do let us know if you'd like to stay anonymous.  


Yet despite these challenges, the incredibly gifted girl continues to live life with an ever-present smile, and a talent that not even a debilitating disease could stifle. 

A video of her lying on her side and painting striking images of animals, flowers and landscapes has gone viral – 34 million views and counting – casting a much-deserved spotlight on Kate's remarkable ability, despite her disability, reminding us that no matter how hard life can be, there is always a silver lining. 

"It’s really wonderful and inspiring. We feel happy for our daughter because despite her physical restrictions she lives a full life among sincere friends and she found a way to be optimistic and have a lot of plans [for the] future," the family wrote on Kate's official Facebook page, announcing plans to sell Kate's art as a means to fund her medical needs. 

"We are going to open a web store with high-quality prints and posters of her works.

"All funds from selling will be used for Kate’s medical care and increasing the quality of her life. We live in Russia. Here there is no medical care insurance for rare diseases. Families have to obtain all necessary medical equipment, high-quality medical care, nurses' service by themselves. It costs enormous funds." 

In addition to her amazing art, the 10-year-old is also a beautiful singer. In the video below you can watch the little girl in painting action, set to a song she sang herself. Remember, she needs a ventilator to breathe! 

Is your child gifted despite a physical challenge? Tell us your story by emailing to chatback@parent24.com and we could publish your letter. Do let us know if you'd like to stay anonymous.  

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