Cooper is transferred to the rehabilitation center and enjoys his first playdate with a dog since filming at Highland Park

Cooper Roberts, the 8-year-old boy who was paralyzed from the waist down when the Highland Park parade was shot, has been transferred to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago after spending nearly a month in the pediatric intensive care unit at Comer Children’s Hospital.

According to family officials, Cooper is eating solid food for the first time since the shooting and was able to enjoy one of his favorite foods, macaroni and cheese. He also had a play date with his beloved dog, George.

“A happy reunion for both of you,” the statement said.

According to family representatives, the AbilityLab team will be meeting with Cooper and his family this week. A series of tests will be carried out to determine the appropriate physical and occupational therapy he needs.

Cooper will undergo various types of rehabilitation and will have access to mental health services to aid in his recovery, according to family representatives.

Cooper, his mother and twin brother were among the dozens injured in the July 4 shooting. Seven were killed.

An online fundraiser by GoFundMe at gofundme.com/f/kxwjn-the-roberts-family-fundraiser has raised more than $1.7 million towards a goal of $2 million to fund Cooper’s medical care and future needs.

“The family continues to feel all prayers being sent to them and are grateful and humbled by the support they are pouring out as they begin to process what will be needed for Cooper when he is finally able to return home.” , representatives of the family said in a statement.