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These are some of the middle and high school testimonials following the motivational programs delivered by Paul Stuart Wichansky.

On Friday, Manhasset Middle School hosted the absolute BEST Assembly Program I have EVER seen in 30+ years in middle school education - the ABSOLUTE BEST I tell you!

Paul Wichansky will warm the hearts of your students- he will leave EVERY single middle school child in your building with three things:

A smile on their face (this is Paul's main mission)

An intense understanding of the life of those born with different abilities

Finally, an appreciation for "letting everyone reach their own possibilities!"

This Assembly, "Taking the Dis out of Disability," has truly altered the scene here at Manhasset Middle School as much as anything I have strived to do over the past two years. It fit right into my Character Education Program, but it went much further than what I could have expected. At the conclusion of Paul's presentation which he calls a "simple conversation with kids", every child in the school spontaneously stood and began a 5-minute standing ovation that sent chills of joy up my spine. What a guy Paul is! PLEASE if you want someone who will change kids hearts more in 40 minutes than anything else you do, get in touch with this absolutely charming man with a message from the heart!

Paul's motivational program was simply "life changing." I hope [my testimonial] helps spread his valuable, valuable message. Please let Paul know I smiled ALL weekend!

Richard McMahon, Principal
Manhasset Middle School in Manhasset, N.Y.

Thank you for visiting all of us at Candlewood Middle School and sharing your story. Your experiences and words of wisdom truly touched me and all of my students, as you can see from the enclosed letters.

I do believe that there is a "plan" for all of us, and your life story is evidence that nothing can and should get in the way of your dreams. Your courage is an inspiration to all who get to meet and learn from you. Thank you again!

Emily Mauro, Math Teacher
Candlewood Middle School in Dix Hills, N.Y.

I can't even express how inspiring you were to me. For the past few months, I have been going through some tough times at home and with friends. Recently, I haven't even been smiling much, but since your motivational assembly, I can't stop grinning and laughing. I believe in myself so much more, and I know it's because of your speech.

Normally, school motivational speakers are not helpful at all and are just a "waste of class time." However, I really wish I could have seen both of your assemblies because seeing it once touched me so much.

Never stop reaching for your dreams, Paul. You are an inspiration to us all and my idol for your perseverance.

Sarah, 10th grader

To A Star

You talked to my class,
with not one moment to pass
of uncomfortness
Not a word did I miss.

A smile on your face
did indeed replace
the dread of a lecture,
you made it easy, for sure.

"Don't think of what they can't do
but what they can do.
Everyone is different in a way."

You taught me not to give in
but stick to it and win.
You are given only what you need to survive.
I've not gotten a lot, but I'm still alive.

You aced that test
of being the best
you can be.
So you see.
I thank you, Paul Stuart Wichansky.

For teaching me not to be nervous
but flawless in helping others
no matter who they are
and you may become a star
in their eyes.

Your disability didn't drag you down,
you didn't hide
or sneak around
Instead, you grew stronger.

So I thank you Paul,
for teaching me
that some may have a flaw
but that flaw
can be turned into a gift.

Mardie, Allentown High School student

Dear Paul,

"Wow." That word actually sums up all that I can express now, because I am still speechless!

Your presentation at our school was incredible! I am still very emotional at this point, and it's only 1 hour after your 9:00am presentation. I'm not sad and teary-eyed because of the personal situation you are in, but because you have enlightened me to be what I can be.

My eyes are opened, my mind is clearer, and my hopes and dreams are there to be accomplished. Thank you again!

Marty Rosencranz, Teacher
Bergen Vocational-Tech High School in Paramus, N.J.

I was touched by the speech that you delivered at our anti-bullying summit today. You made me, and many other people, see life in a different way. You also made me look at life in a more positive way. You should know that every time that you give these speeches, you are helping to make millions of children excited about themselves!

I know that my school is going to fight against bullying, and we make sure that dicrimination, teasing, and any other form of bullying does not occur. Also, from the speech that you gave and how it touched my heart very much, in the future I might want to do what you are doing right now. Which is going to different schools and informing chidren about the effects of bullying, and making fun of people just because they are "different." You inspired me.

Paul, you should be extremely proud of what you accomplished in your life. In addition, I would like to congratulate you on being so brave, and skydiving!! I know that when I get older I would like to do that. My brother, and his girlfriend did, and said that it was awesome!

In conclusion, I would like to thank you very, very much for inspiring me and our teachers with your closing keynote and charge-to-action at our conference. Keep going towards your dreams, Paul -- and never give up on anything!

Victoria, student
Sussex Vo-Tech School in Sparta, N.J.

You should know that this was my top priority, for more than one reason. First of all, I believe that everyone has special talents. Our job in life should be to learn how to use those talents, sometimes in unique and creative ways, and often overcoming personal challenges in the process. Secondly, Paul was marvelous, and I wanted you to have my feedback. I can be considered impartial because I had never met or seen Paul before. My knowledge of him is solely through our correspondence and the programs he did for our school.

I am a teacher and am always looking for ways to foster acceptance of diversity. I applied for a grant through our parent's association last year for a Disabilities Awareness program. When it was accepted, I began doing internet research on the subject and that is where I first came into contact with Paul.

Paul and I shared emails. What came through very clear was his sincerity. This is very important because kids can see right through a phoney. If they don't trust you, you've lost them. I also felt that he was someone who could talk about the topic from the perspective of someone who's been there. I felt that these things together made for a very desirable guest speaker.

The staff and students were endeared by Paul. They hung on his every word. Some audiences were more interactive than others, but it did not inhibit his program. He had a marvelous sense of humor and put his audience at ease. Lunch time was a gas! He was like the Pied Piper! One student hunted me down at the end of the day to thank me for arranging his visit. Teachers kept popping in during the program and I found out later that teachers who had heard him were going back and spreading the word to other teachers to come down. Some even offered to cover classes.

I think I was most surprised with his ease of manner and the range of the audience he appealed to. There was not a soul there who was not touched in some way. Younger students who heard through the grapevine about Paul were disappointed that they were not going to meet him this year. Money has already been set aside for his return - how's that for a testimony!

Paul has a gift: the ability to read his audience and adjust his style to suit their personality. He also has a message: make the best of what you have in order to be the best you can possibly be. He has an "I can" attitude - with hard work comes success. Who among us doesn't need to be reminded of these things? Who better to deliver the message than somebody who struggles daily to do the routine tasks that we take for granted?

Laurie Schorno, Special Education Teacher
Morris Plains Borough School in Morris Plains, N.J.

A few weeks ago you spoke at my daughters school in Rochelle Park. That day when my daughter who is in the 7th grade came running out of school, she immediately started telling me about you. She was so inspired by what you had to say, and also HOW you said it. She could not wait to come home and look at your web site. After looking at your web site she came to me and wanted to talk even more about you.

She also sent me your web site and asked me please to check it out. I have spent the last half hour looking through your site. I can feel your positive attitude shining through. I can now understand why my daughter was so excited to share this positive experience she felt through your assembly. I want to thank you and commend you on touching these children's lives. I'm sure your words will be with my daughter for years to come.

Dawn Sagun, Parent
Midland School in Rochelle Park, N.J.

I thought your presentation was a truly eye-opening experience for my sixth graders. Through humor and hard facts, you were instrumental in erasing stereotypes and broadening perceptions at just the right time for this group of pre-adolescents. You also inspired them to see obstacles as opportunities. Thank you so much for coming to our school.

Holly Koblish, Teacher
Upper Freehold Elementary and Middle School in Allentown, N.J.

It's good to get an idea of how someone with a disability is stereotyped, and to know how normal they are in real life.

Kyle, 11th grader
Academy of Allied Health and Science in Neptune, N.J.

Thank you for the excellent program that A Vision in Motion presented to the 8th grade classes. Paul's rapport with students was exceptional. The children were totally enthralled with the two programs. One of my teachers remarked to me, "This is the best assembly program I've seen in 20 years."

Stephen C. Melofchik, Assistant Principal
Long Valley Middle School in Long Valley, N.J.

Hello, Paul! Thank you for speaking to us at Candlewood Middle School yesterday. When we left our classes, we thought that your assembly would just be a free period or two.

The honest truth is everyone started laughing when you began to talk. About 2 minutes into your speech when you mentioned your disability, the jokes stopped and everyone felt really bad about what they said and what you went through. When we heard how you overcame it, we all felt a feeling I cannot even explain. It was a mix of happiness (of how you overcame cerebral palsy), remorse (of what you went through), and something else I can't really think of right now. It felt weird.

The entire day, me and my friends looked out all the windows to try to get a sneak peek at your 'BMW'. We all couldn't believe what you went through and where you are today. When we thought about this and how still you try so hard to make people smile, we couldn't help but smile ourselves. It was the least we could do. You probably didn't see these smiles so this represents all the smiles at Candlewood. Turn your head to the left and they are smiling:

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

Of course, there were more smiles ... but my fingers are getting tired. You really made an impact on us today. Thank you!

Scott, 8th grader

I have learned many positive things from your assembly at our school. For example, we should not think that other people are different just because they are disabled. That way, we also should treat them only as we ourselves want to be treated.

Thank you for coming to our school, and for teaching us a wonderful lesson that we will all remember for the rest of our lives.

Priyanka, 7th grader

Paul is a true inspiration! He mixes entertainment with deep inner feelings and his life stories. As a result, he captivated the audience and melted hearts. During our class debriefing, it was obvious that he impressed and inspired EVERY student and teacher!

Colleen McCarthy-Giglio, Teacher
Seven Bridges Middle School in Chappaqua, N.Y.

I have never heard my son Austin and his friends rave about an assembly as much as they did about Paul Wichansky. They were so in awe of what he has done, his stories, and everything about him. Austin was so pumped by him that he proceeded to give me story by story with lots of details (that was a real first)! My fifth-grade daughter found him very interesting also.

Paul sounds like a man with a message we would all benefit from hearing!

a parent in Chappaqua, N.Y.

I have never thought so much about my goals, and now I am working harder than ever to achieve them! You said your mom would never criticize you about your assemblies, and neither will I! You were really great! I enjoyed every moment of your assembly.

Charlotte, 7th grader

You came to my school today, Washington Township High School. As you have probably heard, this past Friday one of the students, Ian, at my school had passed away. I've never cried so much in my life. Seeing how loved he was by everyone and having his life taken away at the young age of 17 really brought my spirits to an absolute low. It made me so incredibly sad to know that someone my age, someone with such a kind heart, and someone I know could instantly die like that.

I wanted to thank you for your visit to our school. It was the first time I really smiled since the tragedy. Death is hard enough to cope with, let alone a fellow student and friend. You made me laugh and feel good inside. I had to let you know this because when you spoke you actually brought a tear to my eye, a tear of joy. I now know that life will move on and to take it as it comes. I find that I have been smiling a lot today, not because I'm suppressing my feelings towards the loss, but because I noticed that when I smiled, someone else smiled right back. Before I knew it, I looked around and saw so many people smiling.

I heard them talking about the good times they used to have with Ian. Sure, at the same time they were crying, but the smiles were there and I knew everything was going to be okay. You showed me that whether you knew it or not.

Thank you, Paul -- for more than you know.

Dana, high-school student

Dear Paul,

Thank you for your presentation. It made me feel happy. My name is Michelle and I go to P.S.#24 in Jersey City. I feel the same way that people should not tease others. If the people they were teasing started to tease others, neither would feel so good. But you wouldn't do that to them. You have a heart of gold. You want students to feel good about themselves -- because yes, we are this nation's own future!

Many people should want to be around you. You are a great person and you have a good personality and a sense of humor. Many people should be begging you to be your friend. If so, I would want to be the first in line!

Here is a quote: "ohm - sha - ma - la - ma - ra ma -- ding ding." It means, "Follow your bliss." Follow your dream of being a meteorologist, Paul. And please make sure to come back to P.S.#24.

Michelle, 8th grader

I learned a lot from your assembly when you visited my school today. When you were talking to us, you made all of us smile! You may have a disability, but it certainly does not seem like it at all. You have more talents than a regular person. Seing you try to do your best has really inspired me to do the same!

I'm sure your grandmother would be happy for you right now. You can make thousands of people happy and smile. Just keep doing what you do and good luck! I hope to see you again.

Gerard, 8th grader

Paul, your program encouraged me to try for the dream that I thought I had given up on. You put hope back in my life. Thank you.

Patti, 12th grader

Of the many programs that were instituted at Frances M. Guadineer Middle School, yours can only be described as phenomenal. The inspiring story of your life with a disability touched our students and teachers deeply.

They identified with your struggle and were encouraged by your incredible positive attitude to never give up. The interaction with the audience was lively, funny, entertaining, and educational. You have encouraged all of us to set our goals higher.

Thank you for your wonderful programs. We look forward to your next visit.

Joan Diament, Director of PTA Programs
F. M. Guadineer Middle School in Springfield, N.J.

I strongly agree, now, that we cause our own problems and that no matter what life throws our way, if we have a good attitude we can overcome it. And I see things this way because of you. I don't have any type of disability, but I've hit quite of few bumps along the road and it's because of you that I see I can get over them and live my life fully. On Friday a very close friend of mine passed away and everyone was greatly affected, but your speech made everyone smile, including myself, even if it was only for that hour of time we spent together.

I just wanted to thank you for opening my eyes to life and for making me smile during such a depressing time.

Angelina, high-school student

After that speech you delivered today at our high school to the 9th and 10th grades, I was one of the students that came up to speak to you when your presentation was over. I'm not sure if you remember me, but I was the girl that began to cry when you were talking to me. I had a sudden urge to hug you, and I did (and I'm sorry if it took you aback) and then I walked away. I apologize for leaving that way, since I really did want to speak with you more. But I became embarrassed when I began to cry, and I didn't want you to see me like that.

I wanted you to know that you touched me in a way that no one has ever done before. You delivered your speech so well, and the example you used about the wall with the nails really hit home with me. What you said is very true: when someone is teased, it's like driving a nail through their heart. No matter how much someone can apologize, the hole from that person will always be there.

Paul, you are an angel sent to inspire people and open as many eyes as you possibly can. I look up to you, respect you, and admire you. Thank you for everything you did for me today. I will never forget you.

Jaimie, 10th grader

Always smile, smile, and smile!
Even when you're down

Because when you smile, smile and smile
You will never have a frown.

When you don't have a frown,
You can go all around
And be happy the rest of your life!

Joseph, 7th grader

I go to Onteora District Schools in New York, and today you came to my school for two assemblies. It was truly a pleasure to hear all about your life and experiences!

Hearing about you just wants to make me cry. I know you are happy. But I have realized that I am frequently unhappy. It's just you're so good at seeing the silver lining on all the difficulties you have faced. After your program, I am feeling much better about myself!

You were very funny today. And I wanted to say YOU made me SMILE. So .... take one nail out of that wall!

Alex, 8th grader

On behalf of the faculty, staff and students at Allentown High School, I thank you for touching the lives of our family here at the school and for making us more sensitive to the gifts we possess and the gifts that others offer us through their lives and struggles. I hope that you would be able to return to see the other classes who have not yet had the benefit of listening to your presentations.

Christopher Nagy, Principal
Allentown High School in Allentown, N.J.

An eternal optimist to soften the barrier between 'normal' and 'disabled.' We can never be enlightened enough.

Paula Jedzinak, Teacher
Tinton Falls Middle School in Tinton Falls, N.J.

I am a teacher at Little Falls Middle School where you gave a presentation this past Wednesday. Just wanted to let you know how wonderful I thought your program was. I teach 7th and 8th graders. They came in so excited this morning, many of them telling me they went on your website last night. It truly is something special to get a bunch of boys so excited over something other than x-box or girls!! We had some wonderful conversations today about our attitudes and perceptions of people who are disabled. I truly believe you made a difference in the way they will react in the future. Thanks!

Cathy Lyons, Teacher
Little Falls School #1 in Little Falls, N.J.

Thanks again, Paul, for the wonderful presentation you gave our students at Long Valley Middle School. Throughout your lecture, I had a "smile on my face" and "pride in my heart." What a wonderful life you are leading! My students returned to class with many wonderful questions and comments! You have "the gift" and your humor and experiences are truly an inspiration to all. To win over an 8th grade audience takes much patience and skill, and you have both!

Thanks, too, for you invitation to sky dive. However, I definitely want to keep my feet on the ground!!! I still am overwhelmed by your bravery and ability to "take the plunge." I told my wife about your invitation and now she is thinking that my original idea for turning 50 in a few months is not so bad. (When I turned 40, I got an earring. When turning 50 I want a small tattoo.) Now, I told her I could jump out of a plane like Paul or get a tattoo. Originally she thought I was crazy, but now, getting a tattoo does not seem so bad to her!

I have sent your website link to her through e-mail and she will be speaking with her principal about your presentation. I wish you all the best this upcoming year and truly look forward to your return visit next year!

Randy Grauerholz, 8th Grade Teacher
Long Valley Middle School in Long Valley, N.J.

You came to my school today for two presentations. I wanted to tell you how much that presentation inspired me, and to congratulate you on keeping that positive attitude! You make people want to smile and be around you, and showed me how I can do the same.

The motivational programs that you do for students are amazing! You don't have to do these programs, but you enjoy it, that is what I wish most people are like. Unfortunately they are hard to find, but you truly are an angel! With a life that could have been horrible, you turned around and made wonderful, for you and also for many other students.

I admire how you don't let anything in the way of your dreams. My congratulations on making your dreams come true. I wanted to share these feelings with you and let you know how much I admire you.

Melanie, 8th grader

Hello Paul! I really liked the fact that you came to my school to tell us about your life. As a soccer player like you, I probably could not see myself standing in front of that goal even if I didn't have the disability you have. It takes a great person to stand up in front of that net and let the soccer balls come back and forth at you.

You have really influenced me to try different things. I used to be scared to talk to a disabled person, but when you came to my school, that perspective changed. In fact, I was never comfortable talking to a disabled person in front of my friends, but your assembly has shown me the light and thanks you! My friends and I are so glad you came to my school and good luck with the rest of your life!

Sydney, 7th grader

Hi Paul, you came to my middle school today for a few assemblies. I feel like you put everything that I have ever wanted to say to the world in your speech. I will always remember you and hope you come back to my school someday.

You are an inspiration to me and all of my friends, and I will remember every word you said. I am very proud of you and always will be, and I hope nobody or anything makes you think differently. Thank you!

Leanne, 6th grader

Hello, Paul! I was in the front row during your presentation today at the middle school. You gave me soooooo much inspiration that, even though you have a disability, you have become my true role model. You taught me that I should be thankful for what I can do! I was also very touched by your speech.

There was this boy in the back row making fun of you. Well, after the assembly was over, i went to my principal and told him about that rude boy who was making comments. After school, I went to him and said you know what that man out there learned so much even though he has cerebral palsy, he learned how to walk, talk and even has a great job, and you couldn't do that for your life.

Mina, 8th grader

Paul Stuart Wichansky's program, "Access to Success," was fantastic! He inspired my students and me to challenge our perceptions. During our follow-up discussion, it became clear that Paul will have a lasting effect on my students. His ability to combine humor, personal stories, and information on taking the "dis" out of "disability" allowed him to connect with the audience throughout the program.

As I was leaving the assembly with my class, one student remarked, "That was so cool!" Many others agreed. I'm looking forward to seeing him again next year.

Shana Weldon, Teacher
Seven Bridges Middle School in Chappaqua, N.Y.

A person who touches hearts everyday,

Goes through the worst of the worst,

Having an ACCORD with BMW emblems is pretty cool.

BMW drivers might not like it and

they might give the thumbs up.

Hearing aides, and being able to turn off the bullies,

Is everything some kids dream of

But just a smile can change one soul's day.

Tyler, 8th grader

Thank you for bringing Paul to speak with our students. I thought that his program was pretty powerful and I know my students did too. It was a great message, not just for the vast number of students with some type of disability, but for the other students who work and live with them.

Amy Lisandrelli, Teacher
Seven Bridges Middle School in Chappaqua, N.Y.

Hello Paul! Thank you so much for visiting our school and passing on to us your amazing stories of achievement. You truly are a wonderful person and an inspiration to all. Through less than an hour, you taught me to be confident and pleased with myself, and how smiling can reflect a happy and optimistic outlook on life. You also taught me to never throw away my dreams, and I cannot thank you enough for that.

Your stories and life are inspiring and you are a wonderful role model. I'll definitely try to place a smile on my face at all times! Thanks again and best wishes.

Katie, 8th grader

Hi, Paul! I go to Palmyra-Macedon High School near Rochester, and you came and talked to us today! In the past, when we have had motivational speakers come all the time in middle school, people always have said that the programs were so stupid and boring. Not this time! You were awesome and everybody loved you!

Paul, I just wanted to say thank you. You are such a great person, I know you said you loved to make people smile and be happy, it was hard not to when you were there. I really enjoyed listening to your stories. You live like you don't even have cerebral palsy -- you are an artist, sky diver, scuba diver, athlete, and all the other things. Even for a person without cerebral palsy, all those things are awesome, but with the disability, it's truly amazing!

I love how you just believe you can do something and do it. Thanks again Paul, you really have made me more confident in myself.

Heather, 9th grader

Hello, Paul!

I don't know if you remember me, you walked into my Freshman Health Class at Allentown, I was the girl who kept her head down. I remember knowing what you were going to talk about, I remember knowing exactly how you feel. I remember how great it felt, when a boy who used to be one of my closest friends when my cerebral palsy was at the worst, talking to you. Even though he's one of the biggest class clowns. I knew he knew what you meant, and I knew he still cared.

I remember glancing at you afraid, so afraid because I wanted to tell you, but I didn't know how. So then I came up to you at the end of class and then I told you, "Paul, I also have cerebral palsy." And then you smiled and said, "But it doesn't need to have you." Those words will be in my memory forever because I never thought of it that way. I remember how surprised I was to see you at Cook College during our Agricultural State Convention. I remember how nice it was to actually see you again. I remember seeing you at the basketball game at the Elementary School, where my brother was playing. I wasn't sure if it was you, but then I realized it was when I saw the bright shirt.

I'm doing a report on Heroes for my Sophomore English class. I went to your web site because you are one of my heroes. I want you to know that. Thank you for coming to my class. Thank you for coming to Allentown. Thank you for going down to the Elementary School and talking to them. You were in all my siblings classes, and some of my friends. Thank you for opening their eyes, and for opening mine. I wish you all the best, and hope you come back again, because there are new people and everyone needs to know what it's like.

Maybe someday I'll have the courage to speak as you do, and tell them about me.

Maybe someday.

Danielle, 9th grader

[UPDATE: Four years after Danielle sent Paul the e-mail message above, she was nominated the High School Student of the Year for the entire state of New Jersey!]

I wanted to thank you for taking the time this summer to motivate me and my friends in central Illinois. Since we both have cerebral palsy, you have changed my attitude and my heart so much for the better! Your presentation and discussion have positively changed me, with the emphasis that cerebral palsy is not a disease at all, but simply a disability. Over the years, I have tried to persuade my own family that the cerebral palsy that is a part of me is actually not a disease at all. My family had this misconception that was only reinforced by other people staring at me, thinking I have a disease, and generally they would make me feel different.

I want to show my friends, and especially my family, how much you have positively changed my life and my spirit by presenting a unique program by a fellow person with cerebral palsy! I hope that you will consider placing this testimonial on your web page so that people can see that I have communicated to you in a good enough way that you actually listened. That would help me because that will change my spirit and show that you care.

Thank you for coming down here from New Jersey to tell us about yourself and others with this challenge. You may not have changed others lives, but you have truly made an impact upon me so that I will not let others put me down about my cerebral palsy. I think that we have a bond and I believe that I may be the only person you changed this much -- not saying you didn't change others -- but you worked hard on me. Now I know that I can get my own apartment and become more independent in life!

You are my best friend Paul from Robby. You have put a big light in my heart to show me that my cerebral palsy is not going to get in my way for anything that comes my way! Thank you again!

Robby Stephens
Developmental Services Center
Champaign-Urbana, Illinois

You are a fabulous painter! I loved the painting you did of the Porsche, it was indeed beautiful. If I set my mind to it, I could possibly do a painting like that. It was splendid! I also hope you can visit our school again and give another fabulous speech, teaching more children about the wonderful gift of life and how much you should cherish what you have. I know you have definitely taught me about it. You are one in a million, Paul! You showed me the important things in life and how to make someone feel good about themselves.

Shannon, 7th grader

The little time I have spent with you and the little I know about you has inspired me to no end. The stories you tell are funny, exciting, and so very inspirational. Knowing what you have overcome truly touches my heart. Knowing the state you were first in, and comparing to the state you are in now, I am touched deeply. You have showed me that with the right amount of determination and with a smile on your face you can accomplish anything. You are an amazing person, and I am so pleased I have met you. You have taught me so much in the little time you were at my school.

In the summer, I am going to be participating in a pageant scholarship program to compete for money for college and other recognition such as academic and community service awards. I walked into my room after school and saw the papers for it, but my heart in a way sank because I am not good at talking in front of people. For the pageant, I have to make a small speech on stage in front of a lot of people. Right when the thoughts of "I can't" came into my head, I thought immediately of you encouraging me to "Rip that T out of the word, "can't," and make it, "Yes, I can!" Now I am excited about the program this summer and have lost quite a bit of fear just by remembering what you said to me.

It happened about 20 minutes after that too, I began to work on my Silver Award for Girl Scouts. I want to send around a hundred care packages and letters of support out to the soldiers in Iraq. I asked myself if I am really capable of doing this. It's going to be difficult, but then your face came into my mind with your wonderful smile saying once again, "Rip that T out of the word, "can't" and say, "Yes, I can!" I now know I am going to finish my Silver Award and that I CAN. Already, in the past four hours, you have had such an impact on my life. You are truly an amazing and gifted person, Paul!

You ended your program by saying you don't care if we forget you, just don't forget the message, that the message is more important then the messenger. I now think i can argue that, without you being the messenger, I can promise you the message would not have been the same.

I will never forget you.

Tasha, 8th grader

Your presentation at my school this week was awesome! Paul, you are not like most other speakers who come to schools and talk about motivation and self-esteem. If you hear these subjects from parents or teachers, it sounds boring. After your presentation, it made me think a lot more.

It stuck in my head a lot longer after I was talked to by a person who has been through so much (including meeting Elton John and Billy Joel) and still keeping a positive attitude on life. I knew after you talked to us how much you cared about people and making them happy. It seems like you never let your disability get you down. You've lived out most of your dreams and it showed me that I can live out mine too. It also showed me that there always is a good side to bad events.

You also used great analogies like when you make fun of someone it sticks a hole in their heart. I also liked it when you said about the sun always setting but rising again in that dream called life. All of the things you talked about made me think. Paul, you are an inspiration to me and a great role model. Thank you for speaking at my school!

Michael, 8th grader

You were so amazing that I just wanted to thank you for sharing your story with us. After the 7th grade program, I came up to you and thanked you (I was the girl with the pink shirt in case you remember me, you also shook my hand) but I don't know if I expressed it.

I see other students being made fun of pretty much everyday. I think, after your presentation, some students will think before they tease. I hope they got the message that you shouldn't judge people if they have a disability or are different. I get made fun of because my skin is pale and I'm very, very skinny. It was inspirational how you said that, if someone is making fun of you, then to just smile. I'll try that next time!

Thank you so much for taking time out of your schedule to visit our middle school. It was funny, sad, and inspirational all at once, and throughout the program, you kept a big smile on your face that said nothing can bring me down. Your car story was so funny! You are such a nice, considerate person. You want to make others smile which is really nice.

Keep talking to schools and being strong. You are an inspiration to us, just like any other person in the world. Thank you!

Danielle, 7th grader

Hello! My name is Stephenie and today, one of your motivational speakers came to my middle school in Delaware. I was having a bad day for no particular reason. I was tired and just didn't feel happy. When I walked into my Social Studies class I did not expect to come out cheerful.

Paul spoke of being motivated. He told us to be positive and to look at what we had. His speech and attitude changed my day from bad to great!! I am not sure if it was the anecdotes he told us, or the smile he kept on his face, but he lifted my spirits and made me feel motivated. I still remember some excerpts of his speech. He spoke metaphorically of a wall and nails and how it was like getting teased and teasing others. This metaphor, I thought, was excellent and really touched my heart. He also spoke of looking at all the things you have that others don't. Everything he said has since made and brightened my day.

I had Social Studies, the class he was in, right before lunch. At lunch, I was so happy and positive, I just had to go over and thank him. Paul is such a great guy and he helped me find the good in all situations. For the rest of the day, I was literally glowing with joy. Every one of my friends, by the end of recess, were smiling as well. I was very happy for the rest of the day, thanks to Paul and A Vision in Motion.

Your program of having motivational speakers come to schools is the best idea I have heard in a long time. Thank you for giving Paul a chance to help others open their eyes. I just wanted to tell you my wonderful experience and Thank You!

Stephenie, 8th grader

I was deeply touched by your life story and I was very intrigued by it. Everything you have accomplished in your life is amazing. For example, meeting Billy Joel and Elton John, skydiving, and being able to paint extremely well. The speech you presented gave me a whole different perspective on life.

Unfortunately, there was only an hour to get to hear you talk about your life, which is why I am writing you this e-mail. I'm sure you have an extremely busy schedule and that you are doing many things, but it would mean a lot to me if you would call me or stop by my house so we can talk more. It would also mean a lot to my family, especially my father. He used to work for Exceptional Parent. If you haven't heard of it, it is a corporation that deals with the parents of disabled sons and/or daughters. My dad has met many disabled people and was very interested in their lives, much like I am of you and your life.

Robert, 8th grader

I really liked your presentation yesterday. You are really funny. When you asked us how many times we actually appreciated the fact that we could brush our own teeth everyday, I realized that I am lucky to be able to do that, and maybe I should appreciate the little things in life, and know how lucky I am just to be here on Earth, healthy and living. I know that nobody is perfect, and I don't mind. Everybody makes mistakes, especially me. But I learn from those mistakes, and I learn very important lessons.

I have many goals that I want to achieve in life, even though I am only in 8th grade and have a long way to go before I can actually go to college and get a career. When I graduate high school, I want to move back to California where I lived 2 years ago, and attend UCSD. I want to become a dermatologist. I want to be able to see somebody become very happy with a big smile, and know that I was the person who put that smile on their face.

I am like you, Paul, I like to make people smile. There is never a day when I go to school without a smile on my face. (Unless there is a big test that I have to cram for, but that's an exception.) I am the kind of person that is not afraid of what other people think of me, and I just live my life to the fullest everyday, from the minute I wake up, until the minute I lay my head down on my pillow and go to sleep.

If I could live as long as I wanted, I would live forever. I wish that everyone else in the world could be as happy and self-confident as I am. I am also the kind of person that loves to talk. Most of my friends think I talk a lot, but they don't really care, because I say funny things that make them all smile. If I weren't able to be a doctor of some sort, I would be a stand up comedian. I just like to laugh and have a good time with my friends and family.

I really enjoyed your presentation yesterday, and I hope you write back soon. Just keep on smiling and life will smile back at you!

Cait, 8th grader

Hello Paul! I got the chance to see your presentation at our high school, and I just wanted to tell you that it truly was very inspirational! A bunch of my friends (myself included) felt like we were going to cry in certain parts, which actually is a good thing. I really like how much you encourage people to smile. That's exactly what I love to do -- make everyone laugh and I think that is the best feeling in the world to know that you have made that one person's day that much better.

You made me smile plenty of times during your speech especially about your BMW. I want to do the same kind of transformation when I get to drive. I promise you that I will make as many people as I can smile as much as humanly possible! Thanks so much for making me realize how important it is to make people smile and to smile a lot yourself. THANK YOU!!!

Kate, 10th grader

I really think that you had to have had a lot of courage to speak to us. I really liked the presentation that you gave and it even brought tears to my eyes because I don't know what I would do if that happened to me. I hope that you do accomplish more of your dreams in the long run, you deserve all the world and then some for what you have done.

Casey Catelli, 8th grader

I now realize I can conquer my INNER disabilities and that I can now do things with such assurance. I have realized that to get to your dreams, you have to be able to trip and fall once in a while to learn from your mistakes.

Christen, 6th grader

I want to thank you personally for coming to Hillside Avenue School. It made my day the best in many and I found myself all day with a smile on my face and a change in my friends' attitudes because of your speech.

Though I may never jump out of a plane or even paint, I still can be able to believe in myself and not be so ignorant to those around me. I also find hope in God and always know that there is Him to depend upon if I have a fight or hardship. Thanks again for making my day and for helping those around me.

I know that, even though it won't always be evident, today I became a changed person in so many ways!

Julie, 8th grader

Dear Paul,

Before I heard your speech, I thought there were a lot of things that I could not do. But after listening to you for that hour, I feel different. I now feel I can accomplish anything including my dream of becoming an artist in the future. I think that you are an amazing person because you believe that you can do anything your heart really desires.

I know what it feels like to be teased. I used to get teased when I was younger because I have diabetes. I've had diabetes for 10 years already and it can still be hard to deal with for me sometimes. I also know how you feel about your grandmother passing away. I also lost a grandfather when I was only about 3 years old.

Your self-confidence and your great personality is what makes you a good person. I have a lot of things going on in my life, good and bad. But I hope that, in the future, I can be like you -- always happy and self-confident!

Jennifer, 7th grader

Dear Paul,

My name is Jessica and I am an 8th grade student from Hillside Avenue School. I am writing to you because I just wanted to thank you for changing the way I think about other people and myself. As we filed into the auditorium, I was thinking that this was just going to be another boring assembly where I could catch up on my sleep. I had heard that we were going to have a motivational speaker, and I just thought that it was going to be someone that was really boring and who would just tell us not to do drugs and respect ourselves. I would soon find out that it would be so much more.

I was sitting in the second row in the middle section of our auditorium waiting for my principal to introduce our speaker. When the microphone was handed to you, and I heard the first few sentences come out of your mouth, I became interested in what you had to say. Soon, I was at the edge of my seat hanging on every word that you said. You have such a positive outlook on life. Your joy and hope was contagious. When I saw you in the video holding up your painting telling us that we could all do better and there was no such thing as "I can't," I started believing in myself.

As every minute went by I was becoming more and more self-confident. I saw how determined you are to show people that, no matter how different you are, that everyone is still beautiful. I had tears in my eyes of happiness and sadness. As I reflected on who I was, I saw that I needed to change for the better. I knew that there was room for improving and that it was possible to change. I listened as you told us the struggles you went through, and at such a young age. When you told us the story of when you fell in a store and your family wouldn't help you up, I got the message that we can't always rely on someone else to help us all the time. I knew that it was time for me to start becoming a better person.

I had goosebumps because I noticed that you were the most amazing person that I have ever met. I admire your dedication of wanting to reach as many people as you can and share your stories, and remind us that we are all equal and that no matter what, nobody is perfect. When you said that everyone has a disability, I started thinking about all of the negative traits I had. Then I stopped and changed my thinking. I started thinking about all my possitive qualities. The ones that I can be proud of. I then realized that I can change many of my negative traits, because I don't want people to know me by my negative characteristics, but I want people to remember me by how positive I became.

Each day, I am becoming happier and happier. I try to change a little bit every day. Later that Friday night, everyone went to the rec center where we all talked about how we wanted to be like you. We soon were sitting in a circle saying what we wanted to change about ourselves. I never thought that my life would change in 45 minutes. I saw you again as you were talking to our health class. You were funny and inspirational. I can still picture your smile as you saw the joy and understanding on all of our faces.

I left 7th period health with tears in my eyes, and a smile that went from ear to ear from the joy that you shed on all of us. I went to our school basketball game after school and all I had on my mind was the assembly from first period and the time you spent with our health classes.

So I would just like to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will pray for you everyday. God bless you and all that you do with your life, talent, and knowledge. I hope that everyday you find joy and happiness in everything you do. Thanks again for changing my life and lives of many people around me. I now know that I can achieve anything that my heart really desires.

Paul, you truly are my role model.

Sincerely,
Jessica

When I began searching for a speaker at the beginning part of the school year, I was randomly looking up motivational speakers on the Internet. I came across some speakers that sounded interesting; however, when I saw Paul's website about himself and what he does for the community I was impressed.

After talking to Jay [Paul's agent] a few times, I knew this is what Parkway Central needed. Although we hold an annual Special Olympics, I didn't feel as though our school had a true feeling of what it was like to have a "disability." It's an often misconception that those with disabilities just can't do much of anything.

Paul proved our 300 students that saw him wrong. With his humor and encouragement, he was able to convince the audience that ANYONE can do anything they put their heart to just as long as they always smiled! Thanks to Paul and [his bureau] A Vision In Motion for giving our school a new outlook on those who are "different."

Lauren Mielziner, Student Awareness Chair
Parkway Central High School
Chesterfield, Missouri

You inspired me because know I really know much more about my friends and myself. When you said that you should always try new things, I thought for a while and told myself that I can do it and become a new person inside and out. Last year, we had a guy come in and he was in a wheelchair. He spoke to us about how you should take a chance when you get one because you always don�t get another one.

So I really appreciate you coming to our school and talking to us, showing us how to take the 'dis' out of 'disability.' And remember to always keep a smile on all the time. And when you get depressed, simply turn that frown upside down.

Janice, 8th grader

I would encourage you to continue with these presentations at various schools, but with spirits as high as yours, I don't think you'll stop. Not only do you enjoy opening your mind, heart, and world for us, but you do it with such confidence and love that makes students like us override all stereotypes we have.

We all enjoyed your program immensely and you will be remembered. I am presently the vice-president of the student council here at Allentown High School and have some personal referrals for you to continue your programs at new schools.

Kris, 12th grader

Your presentation on Friday afternoon really touched me. I have a younger brother that has cerebral palsy and I could relate to what you were saying. I'm glad you came to our school because I think it's essential that everyone is exposed to that kind of environment.

Matthew Grinkevich, 8th grader

I wanted to tell you that your presentation this afternoon at my high school really taught me something. That is to never give up and APPRECIATE all that I can do. I'll be honest with you, but I never really appreciated brushing my teeth and using a fork and knife, but you really gave me a whole new perspective. I think that you are really awesome. With the BMW and all. It was great. My friends and I really enjoyed everything you did for us. I too love to draw. But not even close to your masterpieces. A lot of my friends LOVE Billy Joel. They were singing the songs when you were playing your school video.

Personally, I really enjoy helping people and you boosted up my confidence on teaching me how to be a better person. Paul, thank you for everything that you've done for us at Whippany Park. Best of luck in the future.

Andrew, 9th grader

Paul Wichansky is a role model to everyone who meets him.

He says that life is the greatest dream anyone could ever have.

He has ataxic cerebral palsy yet still loves his life.

Sky and scuba diving are just some activities he has done,

As well as put smiles on the faces of everyone.

He has had many challeges in life but has overcome them all.

He has inspired many people, including me.

A great hero and role model is Paul Stuart Wichansky.

David, 8th grader

Paul was outstanding! He is among the speakers that make our "Stand By Me Day" so captivating and personal to each of our students. Paul kept 250 eighth graders in check as he spoke for about an hour, and answered some really good questions from the students and teachers.

I would love to have him back next year! Please keep in touch.

Joseph Bolcato
Chair, "Stand By Me Day" Committee
Manchester Middle School

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