These are a collection of letters from middle and high school students following the motivational programs delivered by Paul Stuart Wichansky. There are some e-mails from parents sprinkled in here too.
Paul was outstanding! His assembly to the entire high school body was one of the best programs I have ever witnessed. The students were mesmerized, the faculty was totally focused, and I was tearing! Paul's positive attitude, sense of humor, and brilliantly executed video delivered his message(s) home to all in attendance.
My grandchildren are in awe of superheroes such as Batman, Spiderman, and Superman, but Paul is now their real superhero. You know the students are engaged when you can hear a pin drop, when students ask pertinent questions, and when the assembly ends and students and staff gather around to shake the presenter's hand. I cannot sing his praises enough. I know those students left that assembly with the attitude that they can realize any dream if they put their minds to it.
Thank you for an excellent program.
Mary Jane Parke, Administrator for CurriculumNorth Arlington Schools
I saw your presentation today at Mountain Lakes High School, and I must say that it was very touching! A lot of strong words, and I appreciated it because I, myself, am deaf and legally blind with Usher Syndrome. People would tease me when I was younger, and some of them still do. After hearing the story about the wall where you hammer in a nail every time you hurt someone, I just wanted to cry. It was painful for me because I've been teased a lot my whole life, since 2nd grade.
As I said I was deaf, I wear a hearing device called Cochlear Implants, and when you asked the people in the audience if they wanted hearing aids, I thought "oh please, they think we, deaf students, are stupid so they won't want to get one. I mean c'mon, they're hearing and they don't need one!", but you proved me wrong. You did change their mind! I was extremely impressed. I started mainstream school at grade 7 with my other deaf friends, and once we got there, the hearing people looked at us like we were stupid. They would tease and insult us everyday until 9th grade, which was last year.
Last year, they stopped because one of my actual friends, who is hearing, told them that we, deaf students, were actually bright. She told them that we can do anything but hear. Today, you proved us that we can do anything with ANY DISABILITIES. I thank you very much for coming to our school and I hope to see a lot of changes in our school.
high school student, 10th grader
Hi Paul! Today, you came to speak at my school. I was really moved my your presentation and I also really enjoyed it. We've had speakers come to our school before, who usually discuss the problem of drugs, and usually they leave no impact on the students my age and younger, but I really feel like you left an impact on me and my classmates because I heard nothing following your presentation but positive things. So I just wanted to let you know amazing and inspiring you are.
Thanks again and good luck with everything you do in the future.
Kathryn, high school student
Paul brought to our lives today a realization of how very blessed we are, that each one, in our own way, is gifted. I have always believed that when the Lord takes one facility away, He leaves us with others far better. The problem, as I see it, is that so often we are unaware of this reality and we suffer needlessly. Paul reminded me of this today, it is a message I hope will stay with me. It is a message that so many young students I meet day to day do not understand. Paul's drive and determination, and his bond with family, are what I want to be able to instill in my students.
Well done - inspirational - positive - passionate.
Different type of workshop. Very inspirational!
Speaker was full of energy and it was catchy. He was happy to be here and it showed.
Terrific! I truly enjoyed listening to Paul. He has an engaging personality and really connects with the audience.
Very inspirational and brings a renewed awareness of a variety of issues, disabilities, bullying, prejudice, etc.
What a good moving speech - positive presenter! Paul has the ability to help everyone smile. It's easy to do, but not necessarily something that comes easy to all. Making this a goal and not just an occurrence was definitely pointed out, I should work on this a little harder. It is notable that this may be the hardest goal I might ever set for myself.
Taking pause to appreciate what someone with a disability can do or, more importantly, to appreciate the positive attitude they can maintain. Shame on me for complaining!
He motivated us to look at the big picture to help motivate our students.
in-service workshop for high-school teachersCumberland County High School district
Dear Paul,
On Monday, you came to my middle school, and I would just like to say thank you! You are such an inspiration to me! As soon as the assembly was over, I immediately thought that I needed to send you an e-mail and tell you how much I enjoyed your company. You showed me that I can do anything that I want to if I set my mind to it! I was smiling the whole time, your bright and cheery mood just made me feel so welcome and comfortable!
In my opinion, I, and EVERY ONE of my fellow classmates (grades 6-8) believed that yours was the BEST assembly that we have ever had! I think that you enlightened all of us with your amazing stories and your outstanding accomplishments! Your presentation gave hope to all of our students who used to look at things from a bad perspective. Even I am normally cheery, but even with my bad days, you put a whole new viewpoint on that. Now when I am sad, I look at things with a smile!
When your assembly was over, after you had eaten lunch you came into my reading classroom and you talked to us more about your life. Even though you may have been bullied when you were a child, you can believe that you had the last laugh! You showed every one of those students who bullied you, how you became such an inspiration. I have been thinking about you and your presentation so often, and still after 4 days thinking how amazingly well you did, and how warm I felt after the program was over. I kept thinking and saying "Wow, Paul was so great, wasn't he?"
I just can not get over how great you made me feel, and all of my peers! Even with cerebral palsy, you showed us how wonderful one person can be and how they can make such a huge impact on so many people's lives. So Paul, I just wanted to say thank you for everything that my school gained when you came to talk to us! It made my day and week! Your friend,Kylie
Your friend,Kylie
Hi Paul! I wanted to let you know that you deeply inspired me. I loved the way that you told us stories, educated us, made us laugh and SMILE, and everyone had fun with you, of course, including me. If there is one way to live your life to the fullest, you are doing one of the best jobs I've ever seen!
I hope that you can come back to my school sometime soon, maybe even this year, if possible. I also just wanted you to know that today you said everyone has a role model, and that yours is your grandmother. I am proud to say that you are now one of mine. It would would be an honor for me to grow up and help people the way you do.
Thank you very much for everything that you have shared during your assembly! From the 1980's television show, Knight Rider, where "one man can make a difference," Paul, I think that you really are that one.
Emily, 8th grade student
I attended your assembly at your sister's elementary school in Maryland. I found you amazingly inspirational and wanted to thank you for so positively representing children and people with disabilities across the country.
My son, Jace, is 5 years old and has cerebral palsy. He was born 3 months pre-term and weighed 2 and a half pounds at birth. After 2 months in the NICU, he was able to come home. We found out around 1 year of age that he had cerebral palsy. He is an amazing boy and has been able to walk, run, ride a bike and scooter. Jace is truly a miracle and his dad and I are so proud and thankful for him.
We have taught him that he can do anything and be anything he wants to be. When I watched your presentation on Friday, I felt that I was seeing my son 30 years from now and found it truly overwhelming. I would have loved to speak with you, I just couldn't without being overcome with emotion.
I want to thank you again for what you do and congratulate you for being the amazingly strong, inspirational person that you are. One thing that never left my mind as I was listening to you speak was that "your parents must be so proud of you every day" which is the same way I feel for my son.
I hope you will be able to speak at my son's school in the future. I look forward to meeting you in person this time.
Louise B., teacher and parent
Hey Paul!! To tell you the truth, I was at the Elks Leadership Conference in New Brunswick earlier this year for peer leadership, and I listened to your touching assembly twice there. So seeing you on stage at my high school was what my friends and I really wanted. All I kept hearing after you left last week was, "He is something special! He really like motivated me ..." and that was so amazing!
Thank you so much for coming to my school and sharing your love and story with us! Stay healthy and keep on accomplishing all your dreams. By the way, tell Billy Joel I said hello!
Becky, 11th grader
Hey Paul, whats up? I think your assembly at my school yesterday was excellent. I know that it touched a lot of hearts and it touched mine too! I was really inspired and I felt that you are right. Life is a dream that you should live like it is the best thing you have ever gotten. :)
Dean, 9th grader
I thought that you were so inspirational especially to me ... you touched my life soooo much. After your assembly, you made me feel like Superman and that I can do anything!
Brandon, 6th 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 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 passof uncomfortnessNot a word did I miss.
A smile on your facedid indeed replacethe dread of a lecture,you made it easy, for sure.
"Don't think of what they can't dobut what they can do.Everyone is different in a way."
You taught me not to give inbut 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 testof being the bestyou can be.So you see.I thank you, Paul Stuart Wichansky.
For teaching me not to be nervousbut flawless in helping othersno matter who they areand you may become a starin their eyes.
Your disability didn't drag you down,you didn't hideor sneak aroundInstead, you grew stronger.
So I thank you Paul,for teaching methat some may have a flawbut that flawcan be turned into a gift.
Mardie, Allentown High School student
Paul, you have inspired me so much from your presentation at the Skills USA Leadership Conference on Wednesday. I wish that I could have talked and gotten a picture with you! You are an amazing guy and I wish I can hear from you soon.
I will speak with my principal to see if he will allow me to have a guest speaker talk to our school. I think you will certainly influence others from my school!
Christia, high-school studentSkills USA Leadership Conference participant
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 discrimination, 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, studentAnti-Bullying Summit, Sparta, 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, ParentMidland School in Rochelle Park, N.J.
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
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 graderAcademy of Allied Health and Science in Neptune, 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
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
I have never heard my son Austin and his friends rave about a school 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.
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
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
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
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.
Jamie, 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
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 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
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
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
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
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 StephensDevelopmental Services CenterChampaign-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
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
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 ChairParkway Central High SchoolChesterfield, 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
Hello Paul,
My name is Christopher and I am 14 years old. I recently saw your presentation on the U.S.S. Intrepid a few days ago, May 17th to be exact. You really inspired me to reach all the goals I have set for myself because after seeing what you have accomplished has made me realize all the benefits that i have in this life.
Watching you go from being a small kid not being able to walk to jumping off of an airplane was an amazing accomplishment! It was funny to hear the story about you putting the BMW symbols on your other car, and sharing the hilarious experience with the real BMW driver at the stop light.
I loved your speech and the slide show/video on the drop down screen. Thanks for making my experience at the U.S.S. Intrepid so enjoyable. Once again thank you for all and i hope to talk to you later.
Christopher
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
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