A Light of Inspiration

If any word can be used to describe Cadet First Lieutenant Ryan Walsh, JROTC, Magruder High School Honor Student, it is “positive”. The fact that Ryan is in a wheelchair is the last thing you think about when in his presence. His upbeat attitude has always been part of him, and the fact that he has never walked has done nothing to change that. Early on he learned to believe in himself and that he could live up to that potential. “There is never any doubt in my mind that I am loved and that I use the power my mother instilled in me to believe that I can do anything.”

Ryan’s appearance in People magazine would lead to news articles about Ryan and his indomitable spirit, the courage with which he faces innumerable physical challenges, his scholastic achievements, his success as a JROTC cadet, and the national recognition he receives as their number one fundraiser sales star.

Already active with the American Disabilities Association, Ryan envisions a career that merges his interests in law, politics, and psychology as the foundation for his ultimate goal of creating a support system to improve the quality of life for the disabled whether in the workplace, the public arena, or working with government to increase acceptability and opportunity.

Ryan’s winning attitude enriches and empowers us all by reminding us that we are motivated by what’s inside; and that the ultimate power over our circumstances rests in the minds and hearts of each one of us.

Already active with the American Disabilities Association, Ryan envisions a career that merges his interests in law, politics and psychology as the foundation for his ultimate goal of creating a support system to improve the quality of life for the disabled. whether in the workplace, the public arena, or working with government to increase acceptability and opportunity. Ryan's winning attitude enriches and empowers us all by reminding us that we are motivated by what's inside and that the ultimate power over our circumstances rests in the minds and hearts of each one of us.

I am someone who gets around in a different way,
and loves to dream of what’s to come.
I wonder what’s in my future?
I hear the voices of my past.
I see my life before my eyes.
I want to be a helpful member of society.
I am someone who gets around in a different way
and loves to dream of what’s to come.

I pretend sometimes that I’m a rock star.
I feel I can do anything.
I touch the lives of those who know me.
I worry not about much.
I cry for those less fortunate.
I am someone who gets around in a different way
and loves to dream of what’s to come.

I understand that life is what you make it.
I say its not what life hands you
but how you handle life.
I dream of a world of no barriers.
I try to do my best.
I hope that I will make a difference.
I am someone who gets around in a different way
and loves to dream of what’s to come.

Ryan can be contacted: rwalshdem4ever@gmail.com

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