I grew up the eldest of two children and was born in La Mirada, California in 1966. My parents dicorced when I was three, and we ended up relocating to the midwest when I was around 7. My brother and I would spend much time together as children, doing the typical things kids do. My mother always worked 2 and 3 jobs at a time, so we had to find things to do to keep busy and out of trouble. I spent most all of my time playing baseball, along with most all other sports, but baseball was my thing. From early on, my interest in becoming involved with disabled children and adults was very intense. my mother always cared for my aunt with ms and cerebral palsy, i suppose this was the beginning to the stimulant that would intrigue my life work as an adult.
After getting married at 20, we had three beautiful children, Alex, Sydney, and Morgan. All of which are now young adults, and i am lucky enough to say, they truly are my best friends! I was divorced after a 15 yr relationship, and have been a single father for the last 13 yrs. We now have a new edition, as my grandson will be turning 3 yrs old soon.
I have had many interesting jobs throughout the last 25 yrs of life. I have worked in public relations, a corporate trainer, a mixed martial arts promoter and manager, a karate teacher, an advocate for youth safety, a salesman, a finance business manager, a baseball coach, and of course a pirate.
In 2002 i was homeless. i had lost everything i had from a business investment, and the next thing ya know, i was sleeping in my car at rest stops for 3 months while looking for a job. i guess i wouldn’t change a thing, it’s a very humbling experience, let me tell ya. I found a job, thank you united states postal service! I didn’t last long, as i am a very vocal italian kid that doesn’t do so well with corporate politics…………so i went on my way……
In 2006, i would suffer a traumatic brain injury that would change my daily habits and abilities. Upon being diagnosed with “acquired musical savant syndrome”, and “Synesteshia,” this condition and miraculous discovery would now make me one in seven billion, and the only medically documented case of this particular nature on the planet!
I now share my testimony with people throughout the world, in hopes of being ONE person that will make a small difference!
I am personally delighted that you would take a moment out of your life to explore this most amazing journey and life changing experience with me and my family! I remember asking myself what the purpose of my gift would transpire into. Four years after my brain injury from a swimming accident, it all suddenly makes absolute sense to me. I will spend the rest of my life sharing my experience in hopes to educate, touch, and simply inspire as many people as I can possibly reach! Working directly with charitable causes has changed my life, my view, and it has become my passion to make a difference!
The opportunity to learn from so many wonderful minds has awakened my most inner dreams. I hope you will join me in sharing life, giving back, and simply extending ourselves to build a better tomorrow! Miracles truly build this worlds faith!
Wishing you an amazing life!
Derek
