How does Cerebral Palsy affect you physically? I can walk with the assistance of a walker; it is a form of exercise rather than a mobility aid. A power wheelchair is my main form of mobility, but as I roll God allows me to share a message of hope that runs to a lost and hurting world.
What is one of your biggest challenges?
One of my biggest challenges is learning to let go of the desire for physical independence. I have found that there are more important things in life then being able to tie my shoes or get myself dressed. My limited independence has taught me to become more independent in God. Each day, you and I have a choice, to be bitter or better.
How did you start motivational speaking at age 13?
I felt lead to share words of encouragement at a summer camp designed for “different abled” kids and teens. So many of them came up to me afterword, and told me that I had Inspired them. Since that day, I knew that God was calling me to share his word.
What was your school life like?
When I entered school it became apparent to me that I was “different” from the other kids. Most of my classmates where drawn to me by my cheerful demeanor, others seemed frightened by it and hurting people, hurt people even if they are little people… and although they were few, my classmates’ hurtful comments stayed with me laying the groundwork for depression and deception. In the years to follow, I learned so many people have wheelchairs in their hearts that I can’t see; my peers needed the hope that is found in Jesus Christ! They would often stop in the middle of the hall and comment on my smile, which gave me a chance to share the hope I have in Christ with them. School had its share of trials and triumphs.
What are some of your hobbies?
I enjoy swimming, horseback riding, art, writing poetry, baseball, giving encouragement to others and living life to the fullest!
I was 14 years old, when thoughts of suicide began to materialize. I became accustomed to the voice of self-pity, instead of what the Lord says about me. I also questioned my value and God’s love for me.
Jeremiah 29:11 declares, “For I know the thoughts and plans I have for you, says the Lord; thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil to give you hope in your final outcome.” I couldn’t see my final outcome at the time that I was making plans but God did, and giving up was definitely not part of it.
In retrospect have you ever thought about how your life would be different if you were “normal”?
Honestly, my life has been everything but normal! God has given me “Normal is just a setting on the clothes dryer.”
How did you start motivational speaking at age 13?
I felt lead to share words of encouragement at a summer camp designed for “different abled” kids and teens. So many of them came up to me afterword, and told me that I had Inspired them. Since that day, I knew that God was calling me to share his word.
Do you have brothers and sisters? How do they treat you?
Yes, I have two older brothers and an older sister. We are very close to each other and they have always encouraged me in the Lord’s calling on my life.What was your school life like?
When I entered school it became apparent to me that I was “different” from the other kids. Most of my classmates where drawn to me by my cheerful demeanor, others seemed frightened by it and hurting people, hurt people even if they are little people… and although they were few, my classmates’ hurtful comments stayed with me laying the groundwork for depression and deception. In the years to follow, I learned so many people have wheelchairs in their hearts that I can’t see; my peers needed the hope that is found in Jesus Christ! They would often stop in the middle of the hall and comment on my smile, which gave me a chance to share the hope I have in Christ with them. School had its share of trials and triumphs.
What are some of your hobbies?
I enjoy swimming, horseback riding, art, writing poetry, baseball, giving encouragement to others and living life to the fullest!
We read in your book that you planned to commit suicide. Could you share with us what your thoughts were?
I was 14 years old, when thoughts of suicide began to materialize. I became accustomed to the voice of self-pity, instead of what the Lord says about me. I also questioned my value and God’s love for me.
Jeremiah 29:11 declares, “For I know the thoughts and plans I have for you, says the Lord; thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil to give you hope in your final outcome.” I couldn’t see my final outcome at the time that I was making plans but God did, and giving up was definitely not part of it.
What would you say to someone who feels worthless?
You are a treasure in the arms of Christ! It’s too easy to place our value according to the world but God made you to be just who you are. Before you were born he knew your name. You are irreplaceable and precious to God.When Jesus hung on the cross for you, he declared that you are worth it! His love for you goes deeper then the pain you’ve experienced in this life, it reaches higher than your circumstances! He promises to meet you right where you are. God has a purpose and destiny that only you can fulfill, no one else. You are a work of art, carefully formed by God’s hand. “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven into the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered!” Psalm 139
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