Brian Dawood’s Story: Fighting for Visibility, One Smile at a Time

Heroes of the Phoenix Rising by Vision One World

A Childhood Spent Watching from the Window

His legs don’t allow him to walk with ease. His speech is sluggish and sometimes hard to understand. But when Brian Dawood speaks, the emotion is unmistakable.

“I used to stare out of the window and look at the other kids playing and ask, ‘why me?’” he recalls. “If it weren’t for my parents, I don’t think I would have had the courage to face life as I did. They taught me to use my muscles and communicate. They encouraged me, taught me to look at the positive. With their love, I was grateful to be alive and breathing.”

Brian was born with cerebral palsy—a condition that makes even the smallest physical tasks a daily challenge.

Feeling Out of Place

School life was isolating. “I was separated. I didn’t fit in. Perhaps, I still don’t,” Brian says as he adjusts himself in his wheelchair. “Anytime people look at me, they look with pity in their eyes.”

That same pity often translated into tokenism. After school, Brian worked as a fill-in dishwasher—brought in only when others needed a break. Eventually, the managers decided they didn’t need him anymore.

Finding Purpose Through Support

Four and a half years ago, Brian joined an institution that taught him life skills. It was there, through consistent motivational classes, that he began to regain confidence and a sense of independence so many take for granted.

The experience gave him purpose.

Giving Back: Mentorship and Empathy

Today, Brian mentors children with physical disabilities. He helps them celebrate their uniqueness and understand that while they may be different, they are never less.

“I know what they are going through and I tell them to roll with the punches. Sharing my experience with them allows me to get closer and actually make a difference.”

He volunteers weekly, making sure every student he interacts with walks away not only with new skills—but with a smile and renewed confidence.

A New Chapter: Going Back to College

Brian is heading back to college this fall to complete a diploma program in community development.

“With the diploma, I hope to get a job in an institution where I too, can help another Brian who may need me.”

He attributes his compassion for others to his own experience. “How would I ever know and understand what people with physical and mental challenges are feeling if I was a fully able-bodied person?”

More Than a Wheelchair

Despite the peace he’s found, Brian has a grievance with society: the glare of pity.

“You and I are sitting here together. The difference is that when it’s time to go, you will walk out of that door while I will leave on this chair,” he says, smiling playfully. “I may even be faster than you.”

But beneath the humor lies a message:“Our society does not look past our disability. I want people to look at who we are.”

Challenging Stereotypes

In an effort to change society’s attitude, Brian participated in a 5K run/walk to raise funds for United Way.

“It’s high time people stopped looking at our wheelchair and looked at us.”

In a world obsessed with achievement and the next milestone, Brian offers a quiet but powerful perspective.

Why Not Fight for a Cause?

“Most people are busy chasing what the world wants them to chase,” he says. “But for those who can’t answer the question ‘why should I?’, I have an answer.”

“Why not fight for a cause?”

Thank You, Brian

HPR is inspired by your dogged determination, your compassion, and your unshakeable positivity. We wish you every success as you continue lighting the way for others.

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