Mustafa, 19Grapevine, United States
Throughout my life I've experienced many ups and downs, enduring multiple surgeries, issues with school, and social issues. However, the most impactful and life-changing issue I've dealt with is bullying.
I was bullied a lot throughout middle school and high school, sometimes even physically. I was pushed around and called "dumb,” "incapable,” and medically "sick" by many, including people whom I've known since I was a little kid. All this because I received special education and took medication for certain uncontrollable bodily functions due to Spina Bifida.
It was painful and very sad hearing such words. I was scared and never wanted to go to school again. Quickly, though, I realized no one has the power to stop people from saying what they want, but what I can do is, ignore what they say, stand up for myself and always remember "it doesn't matter what other people think of me, but rather what I think of myself.”
Having Spina Bifida has strongly affected my life, teaching many lessons that make me strong—both mentally and physically—brave, and a positive thinker.
