By: Kai Porter
Alex Bland is a junior at Windsor High School, who is enrolled in the Arts Core and strives to be a music producer one day. What he has carried with him all his life is a disability known as Cerebral Palsy. Cerebral Palsy affects the brain in ways that challenges one's body control and muscle coordination. It was most difficult for Alex when he was young and noticed that his twin brother could do certain activities that he couldn't, such as riding a two-wheeled bicycle.
It was in middle school that mentors, like his P.E. teacher, Mr. Berowitz, offered Alex the suggestion that he would do well in cross-country. So in his sophomore year, he decided to join the WHS cross-country and track teams. Alex enjoyed running saying, "I think it helps me forget about the stresses of life and kind of just centers myself." He went on to participate in the National Junior Disabilities Championships in Spokane, Washington and entered six track events. He received a gold status for each, first in class in five, and crossed the finish line first in one of the races. Although California holds 10% of the countries disabled, it doesn't have many athletic teams for people with disabilities. Alex's parents knew two people, Jerry and Gwena Herman, who offered to have him join their team on the east coast: the Bennett Blazers. The team had teenagers with all sorts of physical limitations.
Although the attention he receives can be overwhelming, he doesn't like to brag, but appreciates the support. "People help me get there and wish me good thoughts and good tidings that I appreciate." He is grateful for the people who encouraged him and he says, "helped push myself to the limit and realize my potential." |
