Mitsubishi Electric: Changes for the Better

Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation

July 2008: Bianca Terry

"Having some kind of disability can sometimes slow you down, but I try not to let that be a major factor in my life."

Name: Bianca Terry
City: Jamaica Plain, MA
Age: 17
Hobbies: Cheerleading, music and hanging out with friends

Hello, my name is Bianca Terry. I am living with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, and I use a wheelchair to get around daily. As a younger kid my disability seemed unrealistic until my teenage years started to develop and I needed to be responsible for myself, for example taking my medication, learning about my disability, and understanding the transit system, because there are some places in Boston that are not accessible.

I just finished 11th grade at Urban Science Academy High School in West Roxbury. My favorite subjects are English and Math. I recently took the MCAS test. I’d stay after school twice a week so I can study a little extra for the test. Having some kind of disability can sometimes slow you down, but I try not to let that be a major factor in my life. As a little girl I always had high motivation and saw the challenge of things that didn’t have the handicapped logo.

My journey with Spina Bifida is definitely challenging, but I don’t let it limit me. I joined junior cheerleader squad--the Bromley All-stars. I was a member for two years, we even made the state finals, coming in 3rd place.

For 3 years I worked for a Boston summer program where I was an assistant counselor for younger kids and worked as a secretary. I also did a life story project for a magazine called Dream for Children’s Hospital. That was cool.

As my future is coming day by day my goals are to graduate high school in 2009, and go to college. I would like to enter Berklee College of Music or Simmons College for Health. But for now I’m just focusing on school, having fun with my friends and family and getting my permit for my driver’s license.