Seventeen year old Nakia is living with cerebral palsy. While challenging at times, she doesn’t let the obstacles she faces get in the way of her love of making music and sharing her story with others.

Earlier this summer Nakia set out to make a rap and decided it should be about what she knows best – her personal experiences and life with CP.

Nakia has grown up within the halls of La Rabida, first arriving to the Gem on the Lake when was she was three years old. By working closely with her physical therapist, Nakia grows stronger with each session so she can reach her goals.

“Hopefully one day I will be able to walk on my own without a wheelchair or walker,” shared Nakia. “I’m trying to get my muscles stronger during therapy. I know I can do it.”

“Nakia has overcome a lot. I would say therapy has helped her become the woman that she is,” explained Laorraine, Nakia’s mom. “If it wasn’t for therapy, I don’t think she would be able to do the things that she’s doing now.”

Looking for a way to express her creativity and share her journey, Nakia wrote her very first song.  Click here to watch Nakia share her song during a recent clinic visit.

“My rap is about myself and what I have gone through,” said Nakia. “I am really proud of myself. This is something I’ve always wanted to do. It’s so much fun.”

One day Nakia hopes to become a professional musician and uplift others through her lyrics. “I want to tell others to not let what other people say bother you,” shared Nakia. “Even though things might be hard sometimes, you can push through.”