Chris Cairns shares video of him taking his first steps after suffering paralysis

Former Black Cap Chris Cairns has taken to social media to share that he has been able to walk for the first time!

The 51-year-old collapsed after suffering a massive heart attack in Canberra in August last year - resulting in an aortic dissection, which is when a tear occurs in the inner layer of the body's main artery.

He was then rushed to a specialist hospital in Sydney for emergency life-saving heart surgery, during which he suffered a stroke in his spine, resulting in paralysis in both his legs.

But now the cricket legend has been able to walk with the help of a robotic dermoskeleton - despite being told he may never walk again.

"I've heard it said that luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. Today was one of those lucky days for me as I was able to trial the @keeogo," he said alongside a video of the incredible moment on Instagram.

"A lightweight robotic dermoskeleton, the Keeogo detects movement from the muscles in your legs and assists to power them forward."

"For the first time since my spinal stroke, I was able to walk using the parallel bars in the gym. Still a little wobbly as I regain my muscle memory, but a great start. Super excited to work with my team @unicanberra hospital and @keeogo over the coming weeks to see how far I can push myself."

Cairns had been recovering at a special rehabilitation facility at the University of Canberra in Australia.

His rehab routine involves five hours of work in a gym, six days per week, as he attempts to strengthen muscles that have been effectively separated from his control for six months now.

Earlier this month Cairns also revealed he's suffered another serious health blow, being diagnosed with bowel cancer after a routine check-up.

Cairns, the son of Black Cap legend Lance Cairns, was a right-hand batsman and fast-medium bowler. He is known as one of the finest all-rounders of his generation.

Cairns played 62 test matches, 215 one day internationals and two T20s for New Zealand between 1989 and 2006. He went on to become a commentator with Sky Sport.

Cairns has been living and working in Canberra with his wife Mel and their children for several years.