Survivor Of Haiti Earthquake Recovers Through Dance

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- A survivor of the 2010 Haiti earthquake is in Miami, recovering from the losses of his life through dance.

On January 12, 2010, the catastrophic  7.0 earthquake destroyed much of Haiti. More than three million people were affected, and more than 100-thousand people died.

At the time, Peterson Exais was just 9-years old.  He recalls the moment his life changed forever.

"The house started shaking and then my brother jumped on the bed and a block was coming down on him," said Exais.

Exais said he tried to reach for his brother and get him out of the way, but that concrete block came down hard and fast. Soon after, so did the rest of the building.

Peterson was trapped there for four days. His little brother died instantly.

The then 9-year old suffered bad wounds to his face and head. The wounds became so badly infected, he says maggots were eating his flesh. He was  flown to the United States where his life was saved.

Five years later, he's still in Miami recovering through dance.

"When I usually dance, I feel free," said Exais.

He took up dancing just nine months ago, and quickly excelled even telling his teacher to step it up.

"He said Mr. Chris,  I think your class is really easy, " said ballet dance instructor Christopher McKenzie Jr.

McKenzie introduced him to much more difficult moves he couldn't do yet.  Exais got excited and went straight to work to learn them.

Exais won a spot with 'Alvin Ailey Camp Miami,' a dance program for under-privileged kids, where he's clearly one of the stars.

The group is rehearsing for a big performance a few weeks away.

Exais told CBS4's Walter Makaula, dancing allows him to let go of the pain he feels inside.

"I have a lot of anger. I have a lot of spirit.  I have a lot of emotions," said Exais.

He said he doesn't like to talk about it because he doesn't want to burden anyone and he never wants them to think he's using it as an excuse to feel sorry for himself. He added that he's just thankful to be alive and chooses to keep his head up and focus on the future.

"Keep going. Don't overlook the past.  Keep inspiring others. Keep making them feel better about themselves because one day you'll feel better about yourself," said Exais.

Every child at the 'Alvin Ailey Camp Miami,' has their own unique and inspiring story.  For those who'd like to see their final performance, they are performing at the Adrienne Arsht Center on August 1st at 7 p.m.  Tickets are free, but they're available on a first come, first serve basis. Click here to reserve tickets.