It is crucial to lift up the voices of those who are living with disabilities. People who are physically challenged yet carry out their day-to-day activities show just how capable they are of doing extraordinary things. Let’s look at some inspiring stories of individuals who did not let their disabilities define them and instead chose to succeed and celebrate their challenge and continue living as strong and successful as ever.
Rebekah Taussig
A Kansas City Writer, teacher, and mother of one toddler, Rebekah has no doubt shown the world just how able she can be. Despite being diagnosed with malignant cancer at 14 months old that attacked her spine, she underwent two years of severe treatment, which led to her being cancer-free but living with paraplegia.
She had always dreamt of being a mother; however, she was in fear if she could not do so. To her surprise, she had made it through the excruciating time of motherhood and is now living her dream, happy and healthy.
Kyle Maynard
Born with a limb deficiency caused by a rare condition, Kyle has been left with arms to his elbows and legs to his knees since he was born. However, that did not stop him from becoming a motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur, and an award-winning mixed martial artist.
He is known to be the first quadruple amputee to climb the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro without the need for assistance or prosthetics. After four years, he reached the top of Mt. Aconcagua, known to be the highest peak in the southern hemisphere. Kyle has done what most people cannot dare to do and continues to do. His famous book “No Excuses” should be taken literally.
Nick Vujicic
Discriminated and bullied as a child, Nick Vujicic managed to defeat the odds by progressing in life and not giving up. Although he was close to that attempt, with time, he learned what he was capable of and was able to see his strength and potential.
Nick is an Australian-American evangelist and motivational speaker of Serbian descent. He was diagnosed with a disability called tetra-amelia syndrome. This condition is characterized by the absence of all four limbs.
This did not limit Nick from accomplishing the many skills he possesses, which include playing musical instruments and using a computer. He gives motivational speeches and attends talk shows in order to spread positivity and hope all around.
Stevie Wonder
An American singer and songwriter, music developer, and record producer, Stevland Hardaway is credited for producing music from a range of genres such as R&B, soul, gospel, pop, and jazz.
Stevie Wonder was born six weeks premature, and the blood vessels in his eyes had not yet developed, causing him blindness. Despite his inability to see, Stevie has not given up on his passion for producing music. He signed his first record label at age eleven. This was a huge milestone for him, and he further progressed and recorded over 30 U.S top hits. In addition, he has won over 25 Grammy Awards.