Saturday, March 9, 2024

A little bit of happiness

In such a dark time in the world, with the threat  of Trump regaining power, we still need to find a little bit of happiness wherever we can. Personally, one major  way of finding my joy, besides my amazing Sins Invalid community is by watching YouTube videos of my friend David Zimmerman's interviews with impactful people with disabilities. David works for an incredible program, Performing Arts Studio West, PASW, that trains people with disabilities who wants to be part of the entertainment industry. PASW, created by the kindest person I know, John Paizis, has opened so many doors for people with disabilities to be on film and television. In its 25 years  PASW has booked members of the disabled community, including myself, roles on ''The Secret Life of the American Teenager,'' ''ER,'' ''The Nick Kroll Show,'''  '''Saving Grace,'' and dozens more. John is one of those everyday heroes who makes our world a better place.

Anyway, I digressed...back to David. One of my favorites is his interview with Ali Stroker, the first woman who uses a wheelchair to take Broadway by storm and win a Tony for her role in '''Oklahoma.'' Since David knew what a huge fan I am of hers, he created an opportunity for me to meet and ask her a question on Zoom.  This was definitely a highlight in my life. Another huge moment for me, thanks to David, was participating in an online interview with Disability Rights icon Judy Heumann. This was amazing enough, but then David surprises us with incredible guest stars, such as Ryan O'Connell from Netflix's ''Special'' and the history making Geri Jewell, who was the first actress with a disability to be on TV when she co-starred on ''The Facts of Life.'' I don't  know how David does what he does,  but he is magic.