Alec Gotto, 11, has a neurological disorder that paralyzed him at eight months old. He was stricken with transverse myelitis, a swelling of the spinal cord, which sent his family through a wave of shock and emotions.
But growing up, Alec’s disorder has not stopped him from doing things he’s wanted to do.
The Gotto family lives on a Century Farm, where they raise 220 head of Angus and 700 acres of row crops. Since Alec was little, he had fallen in love with the cattle and has since become an enthusiastic exhibitor of the Angus beef cattle.
His dad, Chad, refers to Alec as “the cow whisperer,” because of the innate connection that his son has with animals, especially their cattle. He came up with the idea to compete with Angus all on his own and his parents helped make it possible.
He recently competed in The Governors’ Charity Steer Show, where he took everyone’s breath away. It was described as “one of the most memorable, inspirational and emotional moments ever witnessed in this great business.”
Doug Bear, director of industry relations for the Iowa Beef Council said that he got goosebumps just from watching Alec work his magic.
At the competition, Alec led a 1,400-pound cattle named ‘John Deere.’ The two of them received a standing ovation and won the People’s Choice Award.
Alec is able to move his wheelchair around by turning his head, which has sensor pads on it. The steer was attached to a metal bar on the chair by zip ties, which would easily break off in case the steer ran off.
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