Welcome to my blog! Today, I want to share a personal story that’s very dear to my heart: my journey into the world of stand-up comedy as a blind person. It’s a tale filled with laughter, inspiration, and a unique perspective on finding joy and connection through humor.
Discovering Comedy at the Skate Park
My story begins back in 2004 or 2005 when I was around 15 or 16 years old. Growing up, I didn’t have many friends, but the ones I did have were passionate about skateboarding. They spent countless hours doing tricks at the local skate park, and I was there with them, not as a skateboarder, but as the blind kid who watched over their cell phones and water bottles. This role allowed me to develop close relationships with these incredible people who accepted me for who I was.
The Power of Laughter
One day, while sitting by the skate park, I decided to tell a joke. I didn’t think it was particularly funny, but the laughter it generated was a revelation. That moment made me realize that laughter could be a way for me to hear and experience happiness, something I couldn’t see due to my visual impairment. This idea stayed with me for years.
Embracing Comedy
Fast forward to 2012, I had the honor of being a facilitator at the Spirit Seekers conference in Grand Prairie, Alberta. I talked about how humor helped me cope with my blindness and how it played a significant role in my life. The positive feedback from young individuals at the conference reinforced my love for comedy and its impact on others.
First Steps into Stand-Up
In 2017, I took a leap of faith and asked on Twitter if there were any open mic opportunities in Central Alberta. A wonderful person named Cindy responded and introduced me to the local comedy scene in Red Deer, Alberta. My first performance was exhilarating; hearing the audience laugh was an incredible experience. From that moment, I knew I wanted to continue making people laugh.
Balancing Family and Comedy
Today, I perform stand-up comedy part-time, balancing it with my family responsibilities. While I dream of going full-time, I prioritize my family, especially while my kids are still young. Performing comedy allows me to hear happiness in a way I can’t see, and it brings immense joy to my heart.
The Challenges of Being Blind
Being a blind comedian comes with its challenges. People often treat me differently because of my appearance, but comedy has given me a community where I am accepted for who I am. My comedian friends and my family treat me normally, and that’s priceless.
The Joy of Making Videos
In addition to comedy, I love creating YouTube videos. Talking to a camera feels similar to performing on stage, and it brings me happiness. I cherish the connections I’ve made with viewers and the positive comments that remind me I’m not just talking into the void.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading about my journey into stand-up comedy. I hope my story inspires you to pursue your passions, no matter the challenges. Remember, if something brings you happiness and doesn’t harm others, it’s worth pursuing.
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