Hello, everyone, I'm Jeremy Smith, a proud member of the DeafPlus community from Fairfax, Virginia. Today, I want to share with you not just my journey but also the profound impact a dear friend's philosophy has had on me – a philosophy of living fearlessly, no matter the challenges life throws our way.
The Inspiration: Josiah's Story
Josiah, a friend with a zest for life and a passion for fast cars, taught me the true meaning of living fearlessly. Despite being born Deaf and facing the challenge of a weak heart – leading to a life-saving heart transplant – Josiah embraced every moment with joy and courage. His mantra, "Fearless The World," was a testament to his approach to life, even inscribed on a bench at his grave. Josiah's spirit and outlook on life have inspired me to face my challenges with a fearless heart.
Fearless The World - Joshua
My DeafPlus Journey
Identifying as DeafPlus is more than just a label for me; it's a source of empowerment. Born into a hearing family, my early years were filled with medical challenges, including a rare Mitochondrial Metabolic Disease diagnosis and numerous surgeries. Despite these hurdles, I found strength and resilience, learning to walk with assistance by the age of three.
My educational journey, from public schools to the enriching environment of the Model Secondary School for the Deaf (MSSD), opened new horizons for me, teaching me the value of pushing beyond my limits. It was here, amidst the challenges of adapting to a new environment and embracing Deaf culture, that I learned the importance of perseverance and self-advocacy.
Overcoming Obstacles at Gallaudet
My time at Gallaudet University was marked by both struggles and triumphs. Facing academic challenges head-on and advocating for my place in the Communications program taught me the power of self-advocacy and the importance of believing in oneself.
The Keys to Living My Best DeafPlus Life
Through my journey, I've discovered five key elements that have been instrumental in living my best DeafPlus life:
- Family: My family's unwavering support has been my cornerstone, teaching me the values of love, faith, and resilience.
- Exercise: Embracing my identity as a "Wheelchair Gym Rat," I've found strength and positivity through regular exercise.
- Socialization: Organizing and participating in ASL social events has not only allowed me to connect with others but also to nurture my need for community engagement.
- Community Involvement: Giving back through involvement in organizations like The Northern VA Resource Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing has been deeply rewarding.
- Humor: Laughter and humor have been my constant companions, making life's journey lighter and more joyful.
In Conclusion
My life's narrative is a testament to the power of living fearlessly, advocating for oneself, and embracing every moment with positivity and strength. To my DeafPlus brothers and sisters, and everyone navigating their unique paths, remember: You are capable of extraordinary things. Let's live our best lives, fearlessly and with pride.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I hope it inspires you, as Josiah's story and my own experiences have inspired me, to live each day to the fullest and embrace the journey with an open heart.
