I was born in Colombia, SA. and was born with brachial plexus injury in both arms. I was a small baby but was born feet first (breech) and we believe the doctors just tugged and pushed causing the damage. I was in a foster home until I was a year and a half and then I was adopted and brought to the USA. My arms just hung there and never did anything. My feet and toes were my hands. My parents weren't sure what I had at first but soon found out the diagnosis. I had a little therapy and we began exercises with my arms. They put shoes on my feet and I began using my hands more and more. My left arm is smaller and weak. I can raise it about chest-high. My right arm is stronger but can't feel with it except in selected areas and even that is not a very strong feeling.
As a child, I did get teased but I ignored it. I learned I couldn't do everything normal so I taught myself to do them differently.
I'm 18 years old now and the only thing I cannot do is put my hair in a ponytail. I can drive, write, cook, take care of babies and children, everything! I'm planning to be a nanny or a pre-school teacher.
God blessed me entirely. This may look like a struggle in my life but I see it as a blessing. I may not be able to play sports except maybe soccer but I can draw and sing, and be funny. He gave me other talents instead. He gave me encouraging parents who helped me and supported me. I was asked once about having surgery and I said no b/c God made me this way for a reason and it was His will to be there and support others who need help. I may get stares or comments but I don't mind. I'm ready to live life with this injury!

Click here to return to the stories.