I AM DETERMINED!
Photographs of Strengths, Commitment, and Passion
The I AM DETERMINED! project showcases the self-determination of young adults with disabilities by the creation of one-of-a-kind artistically composited photographic portraits. In the disability community, self-determination refers to individuals taking action and responsibility for the events and results in one’s own life instead of others having to do things to, or for them. Self-determined individuals choose to set goals and then work to reach them. These individuals don’t have to do everything for themselves, but obtain needed support to make things happen to live the lives they choose lead.
Each self-determined young adults receive a professional photo shoot that captures their specific interest or talent, such a hobby, sport, or job. They wear and bring appropriate uniforms, gear, and equipment that help tell the visual story of their skill. The portraits from the photo shoot are then combined with the a one-of-a-kind artistically composited background that is carefully tailored to reflect the unique talents and interests of the subject and their passion. Each recipient will receive a 24x36 framed portrait along with a digital file for social media.
Past project recipients report that this project has given them increased confidence, pride, and appreciation for their accomplishments, hard work, and strengths. We also believe this project is important because it helps everyone see disability in a new light. It depicts the unique strengths, commitments, and talents of members of the disability community. When others see these images, they see potential and possibility and also joy. I AM DETERMINED! also helps achieve a core goal of AbleVoices– creating more inclusive communities that nurture the talents and passions of all their members.
AbleVoices is grateful for the support of the Tennessee Arts Commission and AbleVoices donors for funding the 2022 I AM DETERMINED! project.
Photographs © Jen Vogus | AbleVoices and Digital Art © Chuck Eiler | Studio Eiler
I AM DETERMINED!
Recipients
Time lapse video of composited images.
© Chuck Eiler | Studio Eiler
Jake Webne
My name is Jake Webne. I have been a member of the Boy Scouts of America for over 20 years and started out as a Cub Scout. I had always dreamed about being an Eagle Scout. I have many challenges due to my disability but I was successful in achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in 2008 with the support of my troop leaders, fellow scouts and family (without any waivers for disability). I was even recognized in the TN state legislature for my achievement and received letters from around the country from other Eagle Scouts congratulating me and talking about lifelong responsibilities of an Eagle Scout.
I continue to be involved with the troop as an Asst Scout Leader and I help younger scouts learn about how to be a scout, teach the Disability Merit badge, serve on board of reviews (for a Scout's advancement), and still go to summer camp at Boxwell and troop trips when I’m able. My involvement with the troop has helped others learn more about people with disabilities- the challenges, the successes and how people with disabilities want the same things as other people. I am very, very proud of this accomplishment and being an Eagle Scout!
Besides Scouts, I have other interests as well. I am a cashier at Publix and love my job. I especially like helping and talking to people. I have some 'regular' customers. I am also very involved in Special Olympics and have gone to the National games for bocce and won national silver and bronze medals. Besides bocce, I play golf, basketball, soccer, flag football, volleyball and other sports. Lastly, I'm active in Best Buddies Citizens and really enjoy spending time with my buddy going to restaurants, bowling and playing disc golf.
Because I have Cerebral Palsy, some physical activities are harder to do and sometimes it's a little hard to express myself. I was nervous about moving out of my parent's house but I’m glad I did. I'm lucky to be living in one of the Friendship Houses of Our Place Nashville. I really like living independently and making new friends. I want others with disabilities to not to be afraid to try new things and to be brave. Like most people, I will always need others to help me in some ways. And sometimes I need a little push to try something new - like finding a job or living on my own- but I've learned to trust that I can do things and know that I do have others to ask for help if I need it. Being independent doesn't always mean you do it all alone!
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Diamond Grigsby
My name is Diamond Grigsby and I am a disability advocate. I am the Vice-President of People First Tennessee, President of the Rutherford County chapter and serve as a Peer Support at The Arc Tennessee. I graduated from Vanderbilt University’s Next Step program in 2018 and the TN Council on Developmental Disabilities’ Partners in Policymaking Leadership Institute in 2021.
2022 was my seventh year attending the Tennessee legislator’s Disability Day on the Hill. I specifically spoke to representatives from the State House and Congress about a current bill advocating for disability employment.
Currently I am employed by a large furniture company in Murfreesboro and am also the co-owner and co-manager of Plant for a Change. Despite having a learning disability that can make aspects of school challenging, I am proud to begin earning my Associates degree at Motlow State Community College in the Fall. My goal is to have a career as a physical therapist. In 2006 I had hip surgery and did physical therapy for two years. This experience inspired me to travel this path of education.
Will McMillan
My name is Will McMillan and I am a member of the Next Chapter Book Club. I meet with two different groups on two different nights. One group is sponsored by the Down Syndrome Association of Middle TN (DSAMT) and meets near Vanderbilt University. The second is sponsored by Our Place Nashville and meets at Dozen Bakery. We read different books that the group picks so that the whole group can enjoy the books.
I love to read and I get that from my grandmother who owned a bookstore and my aunt who is an author. I graduated from Next Steps at Vanderbilt and two Project SEARCH programs. I have my fourth-degree black belt and am a member of the Dolphins Swim Team and the Special Olympics Commodore Basketball Team.
I have Down Syndrome and I also have a heart condition, but neither defines who I am. I am an outgoing person, I am determined (or some might say a little hard-headed) and I love to travel when we don’t have COVID to deal with.
I made two videos, one with the TN Council on Developmental Disabilities on supported decision making and one with the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center on the importance of getting your vaccine. With both, I talk about making my own decisions – sometimes with support.
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Bethany Stineman
My name is Bethany Stineman and I love athletics. I have been participating in a variety of sports since I was five years old. I started playing tee-ball and soccer at our local recreation league. I began participating in Special Olympics as soon as my school started the program. I have played flag football, bowling, basketball, bocce and track and field events. I am participating in the 2022 USA Special Olympics games and competing in mini-javelin, shotput and running long jump. I hope to bring home three gold medals from Orlando, Florida!
I currently attend Transition II classes at Nolensville High School. I work at one of our local coffee shops and love helping all of "our regulars.” I also participate in AbleVoices photography. I love taking photos, visiting places all over Middle Tennessee and having fun with my photography friends.
Down Syndrome doesn't stop me. It may slow me down, but if I am determined to do something, I will!
Logan Blade
My name is Logan and I am singer, musician and musical historian. I can hear a song and immediately play it. I am thankful for my God given talent. I have recorded a total of four CDs and plan to make more. I have had some amazing musical opportunities, including performing at the Bluebird Café and at the Grand Old Opry with Josh Turner. My goal is to make more music and make people happy!
I was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 2. Although I cannot carry on a conversation with you, God blessed me with a voice to sing. People describe my voice as “deep and velvety.”
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Aurora Pfeiffer
My name is Aurora and I am a figure skater. I skate with Scott Hamilton’s Skate Club in Nashville. I am autistic, have ADHD, and social situations are difficult for me. But I am really cool and love skating!
While skating itself has been therapeutic for me, the environment can be really challenging. With crowded ice, loud music, flashing colored lights, tight skates there is sensory overload and even after 7 years, crowded practice ice is still really hard for me to navigate.
To overcome this I work hard, am passionate, driven, usually focused, and I have fun with what I do. It is important that you believe you can do it, put in the work, and poof, in a few weeks, maybe more or less, you can do it!
Houston Vandergriff
My name is Houston Vandergriff and I am a travel photographer based in Knoxville, Tennessee. I have traveled far and wide and hope my photographs will inspire others to live life to the fullest and to live life with compassion. I have a simple vision with my photography: Make the world a better place.
As you can tell, I have a chromosomal condition known as Down Syndrome. When I was born every doctor that appeared had to tell my parents worse and worse news: unable to breath, jaundice, low muscle tone, hole in my heart, open heart surgery, Down syndrome. Each specialist cited their own long list of things that I might never do. Defying these predictions, today I am a globe-trotting travel photographer! By the age of 23 I have travelled to all 95 counties in Tennessee, to 49 of the 50 United States, to 5 Canadian provinces, and to 26 countries.
Because of the low muscle tone from Down syndrome, my speech is sometimes difficult to understand. Through but my photography, I am able to share my view of the world- without actually saying a word. I hope to inspire others, both inside and outside of the disability community. I am a strong self-advocate who uses the universal language of the arts to push for inclusion. By sharing my gift of photography I am also sharing the gift of hope- the hope of knowing that everything is going to be ok. I also want to help those who do not have the opportunity to visit the places I photograph to be able to experience them.
I earned a Certificate of Photography in 2019 and an Advanced Photography Certificate in 2020 after completing more than 200 hours of study through the University of Tennessee Professional Programs. I am a member of the Southern Appalachia Nature Photographers (SANP) and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance (ITWPA). I sell my photographic prints on my website, downsandtowns.com. I have selected special photographs, with personal meaning, to donate 100% of the proceeds to causes related to special needs communities we have worked in around the world. I sell my photographic prints on my website, downsandtowns.com. You can join my journey on social media- Instagram, Tiktok, Twitter, and Facebook- @downsandtowns
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Hardin Manhein
My name is Hardin and I am a Guest Service Specialist at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. I provide information, direct questions, and give tours to guests at the Hall of Fame. I also work special events that have allowed me to see many famous people in the country music world.
I was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of seven. I do not drive and sometimes I tend to get anxious. You could call me a worrywart!
I am good at my job and this year I was promoted to Lead Guest Service. I now train new employees and show them how to do each position. In the six years, I have been at the Country Music Hall of Fame, I have grown to be a very valuable asset to my team. I ask for help when needed and give help when asked.
A life-changing experience for me was the opportunity to the Next Steps Program at Vanderbilt University. I also moved into my own tiny house about a year ago.
Anna Goad
My name is Anna and I am an artist. I do art all the time! I have taken 4 years of art at Creek Wood High School (CWHS) in Dickson, TN and I am graduating soon. I am also is a music lover and recently started playing guitar. I take guitar lab at CWHS. I have also participated in music at the Quest Center in Dickson.
Creating visual art when you are visually impaired can be challenging but I am persistent and dedicated. I often use my phone to zoom in to see things closer. I also have autism.
I started my life in an orphanage in China and have been on an incredible journey taking me to where I am now. I was adopted at 23 months old and loves life. My strong will and determination have served me well. I am very proud to be a senior. And can’t wait to throw my cap in the air on graduation day and to get a job.
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Time lapse video of composited images.
© Chuck Eiler | Studio Eiler
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Ryan Wallace
My name is Ryan Wallce and I am an JROTC cadet at Independence High School in Thompsons Station, Tennessee. JROTC stands for Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. I began participating in this program when I was a freshman and I graduated from IHS in the Spring 2020. The principles of JROTC are citizenship, leadership, character, and community. I enjoy being in this program especially because I get to march and chant and also teach the younger cadets. I have learned about routine, structure, discipline and about the American flag as a JROTC cadet. I have autism and I have a really good memory. I also like routine and JROTC helped that.
Some other things to know about me are that I like to ride horses and I have a good sense of humor. My dream job is to vacuum the carpet areas in the Gaylord Opryland Hotel. It is an activity I enjoy and I am also a hard worker.
Taegan Hill
My name is Taegan Hill and I swim with the Special Olympics in Williamson County, Tennessee. Our team is called the Stingrays. I began swimming when I was eight years old and I am now coaching. I enjoy swimming so much that my dad often jokes that I am a fish in the water! The one thing I have learned the most from swimming is that if you work hard, you can do anything. I never dreamed that I could succeed beyond State Competitions, let alone the World Special Olympics! I am most proud of winning a Silver medal 🥈on team USA when I participated in the 2019 World Games held in Abu Dhabi.
On a personal level, I have a traumatic brain injury and it affects my balance. But my disability has not gotten in my way of my accomplishments and dreams. The biggest news for me recently is that I got married in April 2020. My maiden name was Martin but now I am known as Taegen Hill!
Learn more about my World Games experience from this Tennessean article.
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Andrew Braach
My name is Andrew Braach and I am a country music singer/songwriter. I began singing country music at recitals when I was nine, so a long time ago. I am now eighteen years old and just graduated from high school in Murfreesboro. I really enjoy music. Performing makes me happy and energized, although I still get nervous. I play the guitar and have learned lots of songs, both old and new. My voice coach has taught me how not to strain my voice when reaching high notes and about posture while singing. I’ve learned performance techniques as well.
I’ve been thinking a lot about how singing and songwriting can be part of my future. I would like to be on The Voice or on the Grand Ole Opry. Other goals would be to play at venues around the country. I want to continue to revive the old-style country music with my own personal touch. To see one of performances click here to watch.
My disabilities are albinism and autism. I have low vision due to albinism which impacts my ability to drive and sometimes read music. Because I have low pigmentation, I also have to be real careful if I’m outside performing and stay in the shade as much as possible and wear lots of sunscreen. I also have autism so like if I know someone really well, I don’t have a problem talking to them. But if I’m talking to a stranger, I am nervous to talk to them.
My dad’s family lives in Montana where I’ve played at a few venues. I’ve also played at Duck River County Store with singer/songwriter & friend Brian Warren. I’ve been invited to church to sing in Montana in 2 weeks via Zoom due to the Covid-19 quarantine. I’ve played with local bands and also visited a few churches to sing. One of my favorites is leading songs around a campfire. In February, I visited Montgomery, AL to visit Hank Williams Sr. museum and hometown area. I enjoy learning about his life and adding what I’ve learned to my performances. I did my first Facebook Live recently and had over 200 views. That was exciting. You can follow along on my Facebook page. When I am not singing, I‘m a gaming YouTuber!
BoumJun Bae
My name is BoumJun Bae and I am a cellist. I am from South Korea and have played at numerous venues around the world including the Olympic Commemoration in Korea, at the Korean War Veterans Memorial Park in Washington DC, at Harvard University, and for the United Nations in New York. At home, I perform throughout South Korea at hospitals, universities, and other events. I majored in music at Baekseok College of the Arts in Seoul.
I dreamed of speaking at the United Nations since I was young, and I accomplished this dream on December 1, 2017. I was the first person with an intellectual disability to speak at the United Nations during International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). My goal was to deliver a passionate speech about the rights of persons with disabilities and my hope for being included in the society. Here is a small excerpt from my speech:
“Here, I have something to say.
People with intellectual disabilities are not babies.
People with intellectual disabilities are not toys.
People with intellectual disabilities are not disposable products that are used and discarded when not needed.
I have an intellectual disability, but I am a person before I am one of “them.””
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Check out photos from the I am Determined! “behind the scenes” photo shoots
Drew Basham
My name is Drew Basham and I am a pianist. I also play the guitar, the drums, and sing some too! I have listened to music since birth. My first 23 days of life were spent in the NICU and they constantly played music. When my parents brought me home they continued playing music, so I have always loved it. I started playing piano by ear at 9 ½ years old. I am currently in the process of learning to read music. Playing music makes me feel good about myself and when people hear the music it makes them happy. When I play music it comes from the heart- music it not just to hear…it is to feel.
At age 13 I played my first public performance at Fontanel. I was granted multiple pre-college scholarships to Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music from 2014-2017. I’ve played music at the Nashville Symphony in 2017, at the Bluebird Café and the Tennessee Disability Mega Conference in 2018, and at Cheekwood and in The Gulch in 2019. Some of the other accomplishments I am proud of are… I wrote my first song called “Dreams On The Line” in 2018 and it has been copyrighted. I have since written a requiem and one other. In late 2019, I played on a song for John and Julie Pennell’s upcoming album. I also play regularly in a worship band at Compassion Church in White House, Tennessee.
In 2019, I became involved with Vanderbilt Kennedy Center’s SENSE Theatre, which is a drama program for youth ages 10-16 on the autism spectrum. I was hired as their accompanist and am still working with them today. I really want to pursue a career in music. I would love to have a career as a pianist and a singer/songwriter. I love playing different genres of music but classical is my favorite. One day I wish to play all over the world! You can listen to my music or subscribe to my YouTube channel here.
In 2012, I participated in programming with Borderless Arts Tennessee, an organization that is committed to inclusive and accessible arts programming for people with disabilities. I have won several awards at Borderless Arts competitions including, second place 2016 Young Soloist, second place 2017 Young Soloist, and first place 2018 Young Soloist events.
People describe me as friendly and funny. I have a lot of energy and I can be the life of the party! Besides my love of listening to and playing music, I enjoy bowling and going out to the movies. I graduated high school in 2017 with a regular education diploma. I have a multi-diagnosis disability but my main two are autism and ADHD. I am not able to live independently or drive. It also affects my relationships with people because sometimes people don’t understand exactly what I mean when I say something. Or sometimes my behaviors may make people wonder what is going on with me. I want others to see me for my abilities and not my disabilities. I am more than that. I want people to see me as a professional musician and look past the words autism and ADHD. I have learned to work hard, do my best, listen and work well with others, be professional, and always try to achieve more than I hope.
Bryant Welch
My name is Bryant Welch and I love playing basketball! I participate in a Special Olympics league and in their competitive regional and statewide tournaments. What I most enjoy about this sport is that it allows me to be competitive and provides both physical activity and team building with friends. By playing basketball I have developed athletic skills in offense and defense and have learned the meaning of teamwork and the importance of having self-control. I play the center position and am proud of my two State Championship silver medals. I was even high scorer! Since the age of fourteen I have been a huge fan of Lipscomb University basketball. I would love to be part of the team management one day!
I recently graduated from the Franklin High School Transition II program and earned an occupational diploma. I have autism and communicating is difficult for me. But when I am on the basketball court I don’t need to use words to communicate. I find that I tune into the flow of the game.
People typically describe me as outgoing and friendly. I was voted “Most Likely to Make Your Day” by my high school class. Other hobbies I have are horseback riding and photography. I finished in the Top 10 PATH International Riders of the Year 2018 and was given the “Mr. Photographer” award at the Williamson County Schools Transition II program celebration.
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler | AbleVoices
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Haileigh Taylor
My name is Haileigh Taylor and I am a recent graduate of Franklin High School’s Transition II program and earned an Occupational Diploma. I work at Publix am exploring other career paths now that I have finished the transition program. I am currently going to school online at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. I am studying to be a health coach. I want to bring health, wellness and yoga to the disability community. I hope to one day run my own business, called FitAbility. It will teach adults and teens with disabilities about making healthy choices and finding joyful ways to move their bodies.
Dance is one of my most favorite activities because it is an expression of my inner being and emotions. It is an outlet for me to express myself and I make friends too! I began dancing at Backlight Productions, which is a dance and theater company for people with disabilities. I always will dance, I think, and have a song in my heart to dance to.
I also am an advocate for myself and people with disabilities. When people ask me about my disability I tell them I am autistic and I have schizoaffective disorder. One of my main goals as an advocate is to educate people on mental illness and autism. My message is, “We are just like you. We may just learn a little different, think a little different, and act a little different.” I want to educate people on the signs and symptoms of mental illness and suicide prevention as well. I am a suicide attempt survivor. There will be good days and bad days. There will be days when you don’t want to get out of bed, when it all seems impossible. Those are the days you fight your hardest! It is important to me to spread a message of hope, healing, and education.
And that is what dancing does for me... it helps me heal and gives me hope.
Check out photos from the I am Determined! “behind the scenes” photo shoots
Tyler Samuel
My name is Tyler Samuel and I am a classically trained soprano. I graduated from the University of Evansville in 2014 with a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance. My performance repertoire includes: Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville”, Mozart’s “The Magic Flute”, “Die Fledermaus by Strauss”, several musicals with The Larry Keeton Theater, Circle Players Theater, and recently a Nashville Opera debut in the production of Madame Butterfly. Locally, I also perform with the W.A. Crimm Singers organized by Countertenor Patrick Daily and The Princely Players, which perform Negro Spirituals and African American History through song and storytelling. My community service contributions include serving on the Board of Circle Players Community Theater from 2017-2020 and the Board of Choral Arts Link, Inc. respectively.
Exposure to the arts began at a young age within my family. Trips to the symphony & theatre were my “norm” before I could walk. At the age of five my grandmother took me to my first “live” musical performance of “The Phantom of The Opera” and I was instantly in love with the performing arts! The costumes, music, and singing became the catalysts for my own eagerness in learn music and performing.
When I sing/perform I feel the most free and unencumbered; in tune with myself and the pulse of life. The ability to personify a song or character in an opera/musical and truly throw yourself into a role is quite challenging. The accomplishment, teamwork, and artistry to bring a show together is greatly fulfilling. I enjoy the continuing education, growth and camaraderie that it provides me as I learn from others as well.
Through performing, I have learned how the arts connect all of us in this world. Having learned that I have a deep appreciation for language, the rich history of world cultures and how music celebrates and weaves a common thread. I have been very fortunate to have performed in some amazing places around the world such as, Notre Dame in Paris, St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, in Germany and Austria along with various venues within the United States and Tennessee. And with each performance, no matter how big or small, I am deeply humbled and grateful for each opportunity to be able to do something that I love and share the music and my voice with others.
I’ve had the honor of singing in several vocal competitions which includes: Winner of the 2017 & 2015 Young Soloist Borderless Arts Competition, semi-finalist for the Orpheus Vocal Competition, Winner of the 2010 Mid-South Grady-Rayam Prize in Negro Spiritual Music Competition, semi-finalist in the National Association of Teachers of Singing Competition, and finalist for the Schmidt Vocal Competition. The obstacles I have overcome to be a professional vocalist have helped me in various other aspects of my life.
I was born with Congenital Glaucoma and a genetic condition called “Harboyan Syndrome” which consists of C.H.E.D (Congenital Hereditary Endothelial Dystrophy) and Hearing loss. I am legally blind and due to the corneal dystrophy; my vision fluctuates extensively throughout the day. Because of the fluctuations I rely on screen reading to ease the visual fatigue and use assistive technology at work. Some of the technologies I use are: ZoomText Magnification software, screen readers, Ruby handheld device, monocular, and several other devices for daily tasks. My medication routine is intense to maintain my eye health and to date, I’ve had a total of 12 eye procedures (including shunts in both eyes). There is not a day that my vision does not impact my daily life. My daily routine requires me to factor in my vision/hearing needs whether it be work, fun, relationships, friendships, etc. I still struggle at times to navigate my disability and I think a lot of times my friends and family forget that I may need help as I have worked hard to “normalize” myself into settings.
I am quite an adventurous individual and have found an additional passion through travel. Having visited Europe, Central America and several U.S. states has helped me become a more confident adult. I must give credit to my mom, my vision teachers and orientation and mobility teachers throughout my youth and education for challenging me to develop the skill set and empowerment to advocate for myself. For one to believe in themselves is essential to achievement. It is not easy to go to new neighborhoods, travel to different countries where you don’t speak the language and accessibility may not be the same. However, conquering obstacles and proving to myself that I am capable, despite my disABILITY, is an invaluable lesson.
Having lived 28 years with this condition, I would just like to encourage youth or adults with disabilities to not let doubt and insecurities take over or overwhelm you. We must remember, we are so much more than the “label” of our diagnoses and we control the limits to life and what it brings! I am determined to be my BEST self!
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Zoe & Zion Redington
Our names are Zoe and Zion Redington and we are involved the ABLE Youth wheelchair basketball team in Williamson County, Tennessee. Our team is called the Music City Thunder!
Zoe: I cheer for my brother and the team at basketball tournaments. I began cheering when I was 18 years old and really enjoy it. I also help some of the other siblings of players cheer too. I like to help out the team, that is what makes me happy and I plan to do it for a long time.
I had a cardiac arrest when I was just two months old and have moderate developmental delays. I’ve had five open heart surgeries. I also have a feeding tube and I need help making decisions. Despite my disability, I am a great friend and am always joyful. I want everyone to be loved. While I need help with everyday life skills, I mostly enjoy helping others any way that I can.
Zion: I have enjoyed playing both wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby since I was nine years old. What I like most about these sports is the competition and the new friendships I make. Both of these activities have taught me about sportsmanship, that academic matters, and about independence. My goal is to play wheelchair basketball in college and in the Paralympics. So far, I have worked hard and earned a sportsmanship, academic, and tournament awards, as well as setting national records for wheelchair rugby, discus, and track and field. I play wheelchair rugby on the QuadCrushers team.
I am a quad amputee and it doesn’t affect me much because I have worked around it for a while. I had both feet amputated because I only had one toe on each foot and now function better with prosthetic legs. I really can’t say being an amputee affects me in a negative way. But sharing my story is important to help others. Having a good attitude always helps. And I always try to remember… don’t ever let anyone limit you and to never limit yourself!
Annabel Hines
My name is Annabel Hines, but I go by Bel. I am currently a student in the Next Steps program at Vanderbilt University. I have been horseback riding since I was just four years-old and love it. I like being around horses because it is relaxing and it is fun to ride. I participated in the hippotherapy equestrian program at Saddle Up! There, I learned how to control a horse with the reins and also how to tack and groom a horse. I enjoyed participating in their Super Show every year and have won lots of ribbons while competing. I hope to always spend time with horses as I get older.
I recently graduated from the Williamson County School’s Transition 2 program at Brentwood High School. I learned a lot of vocational skills at job sites participating in this program. When I was younger, I had a hemispherectomy for cortical dysplasia so I have vision loss and weakness on my right side. I had to learn how to do everything differently including talking, writing, and reading. It’s hard for me to describe myself, but people say I have a good sense of humor and I’m easy to love!
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Eric Wilson
My name is Eric Wilson and I am a power lifter. I participate in this sport through Williamson County Special Olympics and receive expert training with Opex Franklin. I started power lifting in January 2017 but have been involved with Special Olympics most of my life. I like power lifting because it makes me stronger and makes me turn into the Hulk!
Power lifting has provided many new experiences and taught me to push my own limits. I’ve learned how to follow detailed instructions because if I don’t, I could get disqualified. And when I was given the opportunity to go to Seattle for Nationals, I learned to fly on a plane without my parents and stay in a dorm all week with teammates. I’ve made great friends though power lifting!
In the future, I would like to continue to do power lifting to make myself even stronger. And if given the chance, I’d like to represent Tennessee again at state competitions, or maybe even national or world games! I have won many medals through Special Olympics but the best was winning two gold and one silver in Seattle. I earned a gold medal for Power Lifting and Overall and a silver medal in Bench Press.
I have Down syndrome and sometimes it's harder for me to learn or to do something but I know I can learn or do anything! Sometimes I get frustrated because I can't drive a car like my brother and sister. I've also had lots of surgeries due to Hirschsprung's Disease, which affects my intestines. But overall, I have a great life! I have been working at a grocery store for over 10 years as a bagger. The job was really hard at first but I had a lot of help to learn how to bag groceries the right way. I play lots of sports with Special Olympics, including swimming, basketball, football, skiing, bowling and track and field. I like to speak to others about being strong and being a leader, especially at high schools. I am an actor with Backlight Productions and enjoy Bible study, a book club, and exercising at my recreation center nearby. I am also a photographer and participate in the AbleVoices photography club. I have been taking pictures since I was old enough to hold a camera. I enjoy sharing my perspective and others tell me I see things differently than they do.
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler
Grace Goad
My name is Grace Goad and I am an artist. My art work is represented online by ArtLifting, which is a Boston-based social benefit corporation representing U.S. artists who have disabilities or who have struggled with homelessness. ArtLifting sells to corporations. Through them my work has been exhibited and purchased for Google, and numerous corporations, including a commission by West Elm.
I am currently shown in Nashville at Shimai Gallery of Contemporary Craft and my popular notecards are sold at Green Door Gourmet, Herban Market, Copper Fox Gallery and Shimai.
My work is also in the Tennessee Arts Commission’s permanent artists’ collection managed at the Tennessee State Museum.
I have shown nationally in numerous galleries and exhibitions from Nashville to DC to the Berkshires to Greater Los Angeles to New York’s Soho to Greensboro, NC, and online internationally.
I have a Facebook and Instagram account: Grace Goad Autism Art and a website, Grace Goad Autism Art.
I started creating art when I was just four-years-old. What I enjoy about art is that when I am creating I am quiet, calm, confident, knowing, and connected to Source. I have learned that people like my work and I’ve learned different techniques from mentors. I want painting to be a part of my future as much as possible.
I have won awards for my art work, incluing First Place, Exceptional Education Students, Hillsboro High School annual arts fair, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and also the Mac West Children's Award by the Mayor's Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities for children who have impacted their family and community by achieving their best regardless of their level of disability in 2005.
I am comfortable sharing about myself. I have moderately severe autism, intellectual disAbilities, severe speech and language impairment I am able to understand more than I can speak. I can make known my preferences, but I am not conversational. Autism subtly affects the muscle tone of portions of my grasp, which is why my work is largely abstract. But abstraction enables me to demonstrate an advanced use of color and composition.
Other things I’d like people to know about me are that my work is also in the The ArtAble Collection of Village Green Hills, and has also been featured in The Arts Company’s holiday line and at the former Gallery One, and on Nashville’s gallery row, downtown on 5th Avenue of the Arts, at Tennessee Art League, and also on the downtown Franklin Art Scene. My originals are in the private collections of a number of individuals including NFL Hall of Famer Dan Marino and former U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, MD, and in various departments of Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
I have also been featured on the on Al Jeezera America; on the cover of 2007 autism episode of ABC’s “The View;” The American Journal of Psychiatry, among other magazine covers and articles; the cover of the book, Making Sense of Autism, and in The Art of Autism: 2012 Edition, as well as numerous local and national newspapers, magazines, books and other television and online media, including The New York Times.
Due to my disAbilities, I talk differently, and in limited manner. I sometimes behave a little unusually. But I am very smart in my own way. Though not in academics, as far as we know, because I am still developing and learning, my use of color and composition are possibly savant. I am a very dedicated, hard worker, a three-year employee of the backroom of a TJ Maxx store. I love my work. I love people, nature, walking, working puzzles, looking at books, and playing with my iPad. I also love to eat. I am working with my mother and those who assist me and becoming as independent in my care as possible. I bathe, dress, clean, do laundry, some food preparation. I am very capable. I am very happy and love life!
Peach Chinratanalab
My name is Peach Chinratanalab and I am a graduate of Vanderbilt’s Next Steps. As part of this post-secondary program for people with disabilities, students take half of their classes in life skills and the other half in regular Vanderbilt course offerings. Next Steps is a four-year program and there were three things about it that I really liked. First, there were many organizations and clubs to get involved with through Next Steps. Second, the staff is really nice, and you have more friends to get along with. Third, there is a set schedule of classes, and all you have to choose are which Vanderbilt courses you want to take and what career you to pursue. I chose to focus on learning office-type of work.
I love being around people and also being an advocate for others. I advocate for wheelchair accessible transportation and for others’ with disabilities to make sure all buildings at Vanderbilt are accessible. In the past, I have worked at the Bubble Love at the Nashville Farmers Market. I help them sell their products and also assist with marketing through social media to help get the word out. Because of Covid, I now work from home for Bubble Love.
My disability is Cerebral Palsy. My left hand is my dominant hand, and I am in a power assist wheelchair. I am also diagnosed with epilepsy. Because of my Cerebral Palsy, I can’t stand up very well, and I have limited access to transportation because I use a wheelchair. I mostly have to rely on my parents for transportation.
I want people to know that I am happy. My friend said that I am a happy, social, outgoing individual that can brighten anyone’s day. I know I can put a smile on their faces. Other things I enjoy is being an intern at Blue Cross Blue Shield (before Covid), I participate in the Vanderbilt chapter of Best Buddies, I am a board member of the Next Steps Alumni, and I am Co-Chair of the Transportation Committee with People First Tennessee. One thing that is new about me is that I am involved with New Horizon’s weekly podcasts that began because of Covid. As you can see, I love to be involved with things I am passionate about!
© AbleVoices | Jen Vogus | Chuck Eiler