Yi's Voice

ELA homework: Think of someone in your life who believes in you. Write about how their support has helped you. My mom really believes in me and helps me find my voice. It's really hard for me to communicate due to my disabilities. She makes it possible for me to express myself. It makes my education possible. I will be living a beautiful and meaningful life.

[Reflection after watching the Communication as a Human Right panel with 4 non-speaking students and Professor Jaswal at Stanford Neurodiversity Summit ]  I almost cried when they said no one understood who they were. I was the same, trapped inside the stupid body. I am so inspired to be like them. I want to be on stages like that. I want people to see and understand who I am.

ELA homework: Write about a time you were misunderstood. How did you feel? How did you handle it?  I was called retarded when I was six years old. He was an old man at the farmers market. I was making noises behind him. I was so furious! It's very rude of him. I didn't say anything. I couldn't talk. But I have a voice now. They are stupid and rude. I could care less about them!   

ELA homework: How can we deal with adversity? Adversity is what makes us strong. You can try your best to stay calm, and do your best to stay focused on what matters the most to help you move on. It is very difficult, but it can be done. You can’t give up!

I was not able to travel when I was younger. I was screaming non stop when I was two years old flying back from Hawaii. We stopped flying for four years afterwards.  We tried again when I was six years old. I was better prepared this time. I was able to stay calm during the flight back home because I mentally prepared for the flight before the trip. I told myself that I wanted to fly and travel and I should focus on the amazing stuff. This made it possible for my parents to travel with me.