I’ve had the privileged to have been raised in a Deaf household. My parents are Deaf, yep, both of them. I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’ve got really great eye contact and I’m an extrovert!

As a child growing up with Deaf parents before the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 was passed, Deaf awareness was non-existent. I tried to figure out how to balance two worlds, Deaf and hearing, answering uncountable questions as well as interpreted for teachers, physicians, lawyers, insurance agents and other adults. During this time there were no laws to protect those with disabilities and frankly there was no interest to understand another community of diversity. The love and beauty of this culture is with me every day.

In 2007, I came to a crossroads in my life and wanted to fulfill my passions. I began to pursue opportunities to get my  message out.  There were several bumps and I’m fortunate to have experienced what made me so strong today.

While I started out wanting to educate people on the rights of Deaf individuals, I’ve discovered I have a voice for Coda (children of deaf adults), leadership and positive positioning. All things that were important to me on this journey.

Today, I speak about issues surrounding deafness, my Coda identity, Americans with Disabilities Act,  leadership and Positive Positioning.