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With Pride.

I am a man in my 50’s with a rare birth defect called spina bifida. The doctors told my parents that I wasn’t supposed to live past a year old, and here I am, 50-some years later (knock on wood). I had a challenging childhood that continued into adulthood, but with the help of family and friends, this journey overall has been great. I have been to places like London and Paris and places within the United States. Some of the travel has been hard, BUT my philosophy is 'life is what you make it.'

Uso muletas para movilizarme desde hace 39 años asta el momento soy feliz tengo una hija de 15 años i pues disfruto la vida.

My name is Mike D. My friends call me Money Mike. I live in Los Angeles. I love to surf. I like to make tie dye shirts. I even teach people to tie dye. I work at a resale shop because I love books and DVDs.

Ajai

My Journey with Dialysis and Disability.

Hello, I’m Ajai, 36, living in California. For the past few years, I’ve been navigating life with chronic kidney disease, requiring dialysis four times a week. It’s been a tough journey, but I take it one day at a time. Dialysis has become a major part of my life, both physically and emotionally, and I rely on disability benefits for support while focusing on my health.

This experience has taught me patience and gratitude, helping me appreciate the small joys like time with family or a good movie. I’ve also learned the value of community—whether through healthcare professionals or others facing similar challenges.

Though the journey is difficult, advances in medicine, support from loved ones, and my own determination keep me going. I share my story not for sympathy but to inspire others struggling with chronic illness or disability. Life may be hard, but it’s still worth fighting for.

To anyone facing similar challenges: you are not alone. Together, we find strength.

Stevie was two years old when she was diagnosed with Sotos syndrome (a very rare genetic disorder). She is doing great, working hard, and always has a smile on her face. She loves to sing and is known for giving the best hugs.

Francisco

Hi, my names is Shivani and I am living and thriving with Ataxia-telangiectasia (AT). As someone with a disability, I have personally experienced the challenges as well as the fruitful outcomes. Learning how to overcome the obstacles that come with a disability have shaped me and my personality to what I am today. I have many people in my life that I wouldn't know if it weren't for my disability as well as so many incredible life experiences. I've accomplished so much: receiving my AA from Grossmont College with honors, and my BA from SDSU, also with honors. I'm currently working on writing my memoir to inspire people with or without disabilities. Disability is definitely NOT a dirty word!

Breyton

We are so proud of the work we do here at Easterseals Southern California Behavioral Provider Network. We dedicate our lives to make the world a better place. We can all do it TOGETHER.

My name is Susana, aka Susie or Q. I am 41 years old and was born with cerebral palsy. I’ve faced plenty of obstacles and challenges throughout my life, but I’ve tried to make the best of it. I have an A.A. and A.S. in early childhood development. I have been an educator for the past fifteen years, and I have enjoyed it to the fullest. My dream is to write a book to inspire children and people with disabilities, showing them that they can do anything they set their mind to, no matter how challenging it may be. 'Where there's a will, there's a way.' If I can do it with all the adversity and obstacles, anyone can.

Maria

I’ve had brain tumors that, after surgery, impaired my memory and thinking. Even though I look "normal" on the outside, things are not that normal on the inside. When I tell people I’m on disability or show my handicap placard, I often get a "why" look, as if a disability should only be associated with someone in a wheelchair. I struggle with what I should look like as a disabled person, since I seem "normal" to others. Sometimes, I choose not to park in handicap spaces to avoid stares from those around me. I feel like the world needs to be aware that disabilities come in many different forms.

Dayane

This is a great place to work, as it has allowed me to support individuals and change the way I view disability. Thank you, Easterseals, for giving me the opportunity to grow and develop while getting to know the individuals I support throughout my time with the organization.

I grew up with autism. At the age of 7 years old I was diagnosed by my elementary teacher. I was offered medication, but my parents refused. I went through all the treatments. I went to speech therapy during my elementary years because of my lack of speaking because of my disability. I was not good in school because of my learning disability. During my whole schooling years, I had to have a psychologist every day. I went through bullying for the way I looked different from everyone. Now as an adult, I look different from when I grew up and I want to continue to advocate my disability story.