Life Plans

I come to you today to discuss an important topic—living with a disability. Many of us may have had different plans for our lives. For example, I wanted to be a police officer. My parents never told me why I had extra support, but deep down, I always knew I was different from everyone else.

It wasn’t until about fifth grade that my parents sat me down and told me I had a learning difference. From that moment, I knew I was destined for greatness. Once I understood my disability, I made it my mission to advocate for others like me. I began working on initiatives to support people in similar situations and became actively involved in my community.

My point is that life has turned out differently than I—and many of us in this community—originally imagined. Whether due to physical limitations, neurological differences, or chronic illnesses/disabilities, we often face challenges that alter our paths.

As I mentioned earlier, we all had different dreams, and we are figuring things out as we go. I wanted to be a cop, but due to my vision impairment and the fact that I cannot drive, that career path is not currently possible—unless technology improves to allow visually impaired individuals to drive. I plan to do everything I can to support advancements in this area. Additionally, my vision restricts me from obtaining a pilot’s license. To address this, I will be drafting a proposal to government organizations, advocating for technological advancements that empower people like me to pursue their dreams.

There will also be a new section on my website where you can find letters to government officials, along with a fillable template. Simply make a copy, edit it with the names of your local senators or government representatives, and send it in.

If we, as a community, want change, we have to take action. I’ve come to realize that maybe it was God’s plan for me to earn my business degree. Who knows—maybe I can still work in law enforcement in some capacity. I may not be on the front lines, but perhaps this journey will open new opportunities to follow my dream.

People like us may have to take a different approach to achieve our goals, and that’s okay.

In honor of Teen Suicide Prevention Week, I want to remind you: Life may not always go as planned, but there is always another path. If you ever feel like there isn’t, please stay. You are not alone. If you need someone to talk to, my DMs are open on Instagram (@defywithdylan), or you can reach me at admin@dylanserpico.com.