My Crippled Life-Music Is My Drive

Have you ever had a passion so strong, you know it’s not just a fantasy but a reality you must create for yourself? That’s how I feel about my music career. As I am on stage singing my heart out, I feel more confident than if I’m off stage. I love captivating an audience, I almost forget most of the audience is able bodied and I’m disabled. In those moments I’m an entertainer and I have people’s full attention. I have their full attention, not because I’m disabled but because they are enjoying my talent.

I will not allow this world to define me. I will not allow this world to put me in a box. “She’s in a wheelchair she can’t do this..” “she can’t walk, so how can she entertain?!” “This career is too hard, she can’t do it” These are just examples of things I have heard over the years.

This life is hard! But that does not deter me from following my dreams. Or living a full life. We were born different and different is not a bad thing. I’m thankful I’m not “normal”. And no matter who tries to put me down I know I have my Crippled Is Beautiful family who constantly backs me up and can relate to the day to day ableism we encounter.

My music is my drive. What keeps you going? What are you so passionate about that you won’t let anyone get in your way?

-Marna Michele