I was diagnosed with dyspraxia when I was five years old. I’m 16 now, and this is my story.

When I was little, doctors told my mom things no parent ever wants to hear. They said I might never walk right, never talk right, never be able to do the “normal” things other kids do. I struggled with everything balance, coordination, behavior, learning. In kindergarten, I acted out all the time. I mean all the time. I didn’t understand my body or my emotions, and no one really understood me. They almost kicked me out of school because of how bad it got. Some people didn’t even take dyspraxia seriously they thought it was an excuse or a joke.

But my mom never gave up on me. She fought for me when no one else would. She pushed for answers, support, and understanding. That’s why she reached out to the Dyspraxia Foundation back then, because she knew I deserved more than being written off.

Growing up wasn’t easy. I spent most of middle school in special education classes. I felt different. I felt behind. I felt like people saw my struggles before they ever saw my strengths. And even now, there are things I still can’t do like tying my shoes. That’s something people laugh about, but for me, it’s real.

But here’s what they didn’t expect.

I’m doing things my doctors never told me I could do. I have my learner’s permit. I’m driving. I’m thriving in school. I passed my math exam my sophomore year. I was finally taken out of special education classes, and I’ve been doing great ever since. I’m taking honors classes and college courses. I pass my exams with flying colors. I have a 4.0 GPA, and I graduate next year. Even though it still feels like some people doubt me like they only see what I struggle with instead of what I’m capable of I don’t let that stop me anymore. I’ve been doubted my whole life. “Are you sure you can handle this?” Yes. I can. And I am. I’ve been living with dyspraxia for about 11 years now, and I’ve come a long way. Dyspraxia has made my path harder, but it has also made me stronger. It doesn’t define me it never did. Like my mom always told me, I can do anything I set my mind to. And that’s exactly what I’ve been doing.

This is my voice now. This is my proof.
This is my story.

A special thanks to Warren Fried for fighting for me as well.