Ohio cheerleader, dancer vows to perform again after leg amputation; community rallies to reclaim her dreams

What began as a routine cheer camp turned into a fight for survival for 17-year-old Amani Smith, a senior at Shaker Heights High School in Ohio. Now, her community is rallying to help her reclaim her dreams of dancing and performing—despite the loss of her leg.

Ohio cheerleader, dancer Amani Smith faces tragic incident

Smith, a beloved student and performer, is known for her leadership as captain of the SHHS Band Raiderettes, her role as a varsity cheerleader, and her choreography in the school’s annual Sankofa Black History program. She had planned to study dance and theatre in college. But in June, a sudden medical emergency changed everything.

After complaining of stomach pain during camp, Smith was rushed to the hospital where doctors discovered a ruptured abdominal cyst. The infection led to sepsis, organ failure, and a stroke. During emergency surgery, an artery was nicked, cutting off blood flow to her left leg for hours. Doctors made the agonizing decision to amputate her leg at the hip to save her life.

“She said, ‘Mommy, I’m gonna thug it out,’” recalled her mother, Nicole McDaniel. “But then her body started to hurt. We didn’t know it was this serious”.

She’s determined to dance again

Smith was placed on life support for nearly a week at Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital, where she remains in recovery. Even the cast of Hamilton paid her a visit.

Despite the trauma, Smith’s spirit remains unshaken. “I just know I’m tough,” she told FOX 8 News. “Nothing can really bring me down… just push through”.

Community rallies to support Amani Smith

Her family—including parents Nicole and Arthur McDaniel and younger siblings Arthur Jr. and Avery—have launched the Help Amani Dance Again campaign to support her recovery. Funds will go toward:

• A custom prosthetic limb designed for dancers
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Home modifications and mobility equipment
• Mental health support and ongoing medical expenses

“She’s the heart of our family,” said her father. “You don’t realize how many people you touch until something like this happens”.

The Shaker Heights community has responded with overwhelming support. A Meal Train was organized by cheer coaches, and donations have poured in from across Northeast Ohio.

Smith’s goal is to return to school for her senior year, rejoin the Raiderettes, and continue pursuing her passion for performance.

To contribute or learn more, visit Help Amani Dance Again on GoFundMe.