Rachel was born in December 1993 after a difficult breech delivery. A stroke at birth caused cerebral palsy, affecting the left side of her body.
Growing up, her family worked to normalize her limitations. Years of therapy helped, but she feared being a burden. She hid her condition, avoiding tasks that highlighted her disability, and struggled with dating.
The COVID-19 pandemic led her to search for online support groups for hemiparesis, a type of cerebral palsy. She discovered a global community where she finally felt understood.
She began posting videos about her experience. The response was overwhelming, with millions of views and messages from people around the world. The online connection transformed her life.
Rachel now lives in North Carolina with her partner. She has a new career focused on raising awareness about pediatric stroke and cerebral palsy.
Her goal is to give a voice to everyone living with invisible or visible disabilities.