Studio's program teaches mom with ALS to dance with son for wedding

DETROIT (WJBK) - "My son Evan and I decided we wanted to do the mother-son dance but I am in a wheelchair and that makes things a little more complicated," said Cynthia Alexander.

Complicated, but not impossible. Cynthia Alexander was diagnosed with ALS three years ago. The disease progressed slowly at first, but recently began moving to Cynthia's upper body. She may be confined to a wheelchair, but the 65-year-old was determined to dance at her son Evan's wedding. 

"When we first started talking about the mother and son dance we were like we weren't going to do that - I thought why not let's find out

That's when they discovered the wheelchair dance program at Fred Astaire Dance Studio in West Bloomfield. Mom and son will tell you their rhythm is limited - but their passion to perform the traditional dance on October 6th is boundless.

"I think she is really enjoying it," said Evan Alexander. "I'm glad for that. I wanted to find a way to incorporate her in the wedding and have that dance with her."

Evan Mountain, who owns that Fred Astaire location, brought this program to metro Detroit- - knowing how ballroom dancing can bring confidence, connection and a chance for people of all abilities to shine.

"Everyone special who comes in here to do this, it brings so much joy to a mother at wedding," said Mountain. "And (they) never thought it would happen, it fills your heart brings a tear in your eye we are happy when we get to do that for people."

This is Cynthia and Evan's last of four lessons. Before the big day their instructor Misha choreographed the routine - the instrumental version of “A song for mama."

"I love it when people come in and make first steps," said Misha Annienkov. "When I see the smiles on the face, I want to show them more - move more."

And looking at the smiles on the faces of this mother and son - their bond only made stronger by the memorable moment they are creating for Evan's marriage and forever.

"It has all been fun,” said Cynthia. "I think the main challenge we both have is remembering the order of things."

"I feel a little more comfortable than I did. The bride knows we are practicing we haven't let her see the dance

"It will be a surprise for everyone."