Roxann Moore is the 27-year-old mother of identical twins John and James Shirah. Now 6 years old, John and James were born nearly three months premature following a difficult pregnancy. Both boys were lucky to survive their early birth, but not without repercussions: at age 18 months, they were diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy.

A condition that inhibits muscle control and movement, cerebral palsy has radically shaped the boys' lives — as well as the lives of those who love and care for them. James is a quadriplegic, meaning that he has only limited control over the muscles in his arms and legs. John's muscle-coordination problems focus primarily on his lower body.

Last year, John — the stronger of the twins — underwent an invasive surgery to straighten bones and muscles in his legs and give him a chance to walk. Coupled with extensive physical therapy, the surgery is paying off. John can now walk independently.

Now, James — the younger and weaker of the twins — is about to have life-changing surgery of his own. But there is only a 25 percent chance that even if the surgery itself is a success, he will ever walk.

Dr. Stephanie S. Martin is one of only 10 pediatric orthopaedic surgeons in the country specializing in sports medicine. She is the surgeon whom Roxann asked to operate on John a year ago. Now she will perform the far more risky and dangerous procedure on James. James' future, as well as Roxann's, hinges on her skills as a surgeon.

Roxann, James and John live in Griffin, Ga., with Roxann's cousin, Nicole Moore, and her family. The boys' grandparents live nearby. For the past six years, Roxann has been a full-time mother and caretaker. But if James can get on his feet, she hopes to pursue a career — perhaps in physical therapy.

Roxann is currently seeking a sponsor for James to help send him to a school for children with special needs.