The Spark
At the age of two years old, I was diagnosed with a condition called “Cerebral Palsy or CP”, a disorder that affects a person’s motor skills. In my case, I would have to learn how to navigate the world while using an electric wheelchair. The wheelchair however, wouldn’t be the most challenging hurdle, but the presumptions that’s often associated with having a condition such as CP. There were often discrepancies with the degree of potential seen within myself versus those that were projected upon me. My childhood was far from typical, but being forced to continually set higher goals for myself at such a young age built the strong foundation and values of who I am today.
The Fuel
I naturally had the self-confidence and motivation but struggled to find something to apply myself within my accessibility. Around 10 years old, I was introduced to filmmaking. I instinctually gravitated towards the realm of Post-Production as a result of my relationship with technology. By having CP, there’s a heavy reliance on technology as a means to function properly with daily tasks. So technology was always second nature to me, and when I realized I could combine my knowledge of Technology and passion for creativity I knew my purpose was found.
The Fire
I’ve been under the care of the same group of Doctors since I was two years old. The same doctors that said they weren’t confident that I would have any cognitive function, now call me their miracle patient. Not many people who are in similar positions are able to reach the milestones that I’ve been fortunate to reach, not because they can’t but they’re not told that they can. If I would have listened to everything I was told I could not do, I wouldn’t be an UCSB college graduate, the CEO of my own company, or enjoying the craft I couldn’t imagine my life without. Filmmaking is the largest megaphone around, and I aim to use this art form as a means to let people who may feel invisible know they’re truly invincible, every chance I get.
