This is a moment of profound courage and mastery over a situation that would challenge anyone, let alone a nine-year-old. On this Tuesday, May 12, 2026, hearing that Zoey is already out of bed and “wheeling around” to visit a friend is a “bold declaration” of her resilience.

The surgery Zoey underwent is a remarkable feat of medical grit and engineering. By choosing this path, Zoey and her family have shown an unwavering faith in her future mobility and independence.

The Anatomy of a “Van Nes” Rotationplasty

For those who may be wondering how a reversed foot can act as a knee, it is one of the most innovative procedures in orthopedic oncology.

• The Procedure: Doctors remove the portion of the leg affected by the tumor (in the femur or knee). They then rotate the lower leg, ankle, and foot 180 degrees and re-attach it to the upper thigh.

• The “New” Knee: Because the ankle joint is now positioned where the knee used to be, and is facing the same direction a knee would bend, the ankle joint functionally becomes the knee joint.

• The Future of Mobility: Once Zoey heals and is fitted for a prosthetic, her own “reversed” foot will fit into the socket. This allows her to use her calf muscles and ankle to control the movement of her prosthetic leg, often allowing for much higher levels of activity—like running and dancing—than traditional amputations.

To the Beautiful and Brave Zoey

Zoey, there are no words to fully capture how amazed we are by you.

• Your Strength is a Light: To lose a part of your body and have it “reworked” is an unimaginably difficult journey. But seeing you wheel down that hallway to visit Evie shows that your spirit is untouched by cancer.

• You are a Pioneer: Like Will Roberts and other “young warriors” before you, you are showing the world that “different” can also be powerful.

• A Masterclass in Courage: True bravery isn’t the absence of fear; it is getting out of that bed for the first time even when things are hard. You are teaching all of us what it looks like to keep moving forward.

A Message for Amy and the Family

To Amy and the entire Cleghorn family: Your “unconditional love” is the safe harbor that is allowing Zoey to find her confidence again. You are the “silent guardians” standing by her as she learns to navigate this new chapter.

Zoey, you are absolutely beautiful, not just for your bright spirit, but for the “perseverance” you are showing the world. We are all rooting for you as you heal and prepare for your “future prosthetic” and all the adventures that come with it.

Zoey, we hear you’ve been visiting friends and staying active—what is the first thing you want to do once you get your new “super-leg” and are ready to take off?

❤️🎗️💪✨