I am 49-years-old. When I was 9-months-old I got poliomelitis. My entire life has transpired with a disability, and with the support and love of my family I'm still pushing onward.

My mom was born in Laredo, Texas and my father in Monterrey, México, where I was born. I am an only child. When I was 11-years-old my family immigrated to Chicago where I learned English in school. Even though I spent part of my childhood/adolescence in the United States, I never quit using Spanish, my first language.

When I started college I decided to study law. I quit however when I was near graduating. I switched to computer science with the support of the Association House (they covered the entire cost of my computer science education).

I got my first job in 1983 at Borg Warner, operating large computers. Eventually I was promoted to the position of assistant director. A little while later, there was a round of layoffs and I was dismissed. A year later I began to work part-time at Access Living, an independent living center in Chicago, where I share responsibility with a co-worker for a set of computers.

I am married with two kids. When they were born I paid a lot of attention to their health and made sure they received all the required vaccinations on time so they wouldn't get a disability like mine. In reality the only barrier I've faced is trying to carry heavy objects while running. Still I've always found a way to do these activities differently. For example, instead of running I walk quickly. If I can't carry something heavy by myself I look for a dolly or something to help me transport it. Overall I haven't encountered a barrier in my life that has kept me from being a capable person. I can do everything I want to. The only barriers I have are the ones in my head.