Girl shocks classmates, walking at graduation after waking up from coma

Bethlehem, PA — High school graduation was about more than just a diploma for 17-year-old Kiera Pheiffer.

The teen was on a mission to surprise her classmates as she defied the odds.

Kiera was critically injured in a car accident in October of 2014, so her graduation from high school was especially meaningful for her family.

"A little nervous but very excited for her, she's worked really really hard for this moment so I'm glad for her that she's getting to do it." Said her mother Helene.

Her father Bill said, "If you roll the calendar back a few months, it wasn't looking real great and she's amazing and she works hard."

As for Kiera she said, "I'm feeling very happy and excited."

Eight months ago to the day, Kiera was in a coma, but her positive attitude has made a big difference in her recovery.

Throughout her recovery she's had a goal in mind.

"She wanted to walk at graduation, simple as that," said her father, "and she's been working every day with the therapist to do just that."

The audience was filled with people that did not know that Keira would even be a part of the ceremony.

But when her name was called she got out of her wheelchair and crossed the stage to get her diploma.

Kiera's physical therapist was by her side. Her mother says that Kiera had hoped to become a physical therapist before the accident, and she still hopes to work towards that dream.

"She realizes that she's a lucky girl, that she probably shouldn't be here but God didn't want her yet."