My Life, My Terms with Short Bowel Syndrome
I was born with Short Bowel Syndrome. I am one of those awkwardly blessed human beings that has had the opportunity to grow up with my illness. Oddly enough, I don't consider myself to have a disability. In fact, I don't consider myself to be disabled. In my eyes, I'm normal. I'm ready to face anything that comes my way just like any other "normal human being". Although my life hasn't been the easiest- plagued with hospital visits and surgeries, I've managed to be on top of my condition and ahead of the game. With that being said, I have managed to play contact sports, run track and field all with an ostomy. I have performed 8 shows a week Off-Broadway while rehearsing and living in a community center on 63rd and Broadway.
I've never had the easiest life but I've also never allowed my condition to define me. I've never allowed it to be all that I am. I've had to take extra precautions with, but who hasn't? My goal is now to encourage people to take their illness or whatever you want to call it and don't let it define you. You define it. Many times our symptoms and the outcome are beyond our control. However, As long as we can remain in control, live our lives to the best of our abilities.
I now spend time advocating for arts in education. When you look at me, you would never think that I'm sick. I pack my day full of influencing people, giving smiles, advocating for arts in education and playing music of all kinds for many different age levels. Along with music, I'm very fortunate to visit a gym, run, and occasionally play soccer with the kids I teach. Throughout the years I have tried hard to stay focused on all the things I do and want to achieve. I've performed in many major cabaret venues in New York City and have traveled the country using my voice and platform to inspire and educate doctors, nurses and other medical personal. I've tried to set myself up for success with all I do.
