If you are in search of inspiration, you just hit gold. Born on January 2nd, 1988, Amanda Lynn Harvey is an American songwriter, singer and motivational speaker. Mandy developed hearing problems as a child and had several unsuccessful surgeries to correct it. However, she didn’t allow it to affect her love for music. She was recognized for her talent and got accepted into Colorado State University as a vocal music education student.
Sadly, during her freshman year, she lost all hearing as a result of a connective tissue disorder which affected her nerves. At 18, the news was quite depressing for Mandy who had to drop out and take sign language classes. She powered through with the help of visual tuners and learned how to sing and play the guitar. Here I was with perfect senses, trying to sing but ending up screeching in blissful ignorance!
I got to know about Mandy when I watched her audition on Season 12 of America’s Got Talent. Mandy came on the stage barefoot with a ukulele, trusted her pitch and dazzled the world with a perfect rendition of her original song “Try”. Before she performed, she made a powerful quote, “…after I lost my hearing, I gave up. But I want to do more with my life than just give up!” Her performance got her a golden buzzer from judge Simon Cowell. She continued performing original songs like “Release Me”, “This Time” throughout her journey on the show, finishing in fourth place.
Alongside Mark Atteberry, Mandy published a memoir titled Sensing the Rhythm: Finding My Voice in a World without Sound. She also has added more music albums to her feather. As an ambassador of No Barriers USA and Invisible Disabilities Association, she inspires people with personal barriers to overcome their challenges. You can follow her on her official Instagram and Twitter page (@mandyharvey).
Mandy’s story encourages one to remain strong in the pursuit of dreams because walls cave under persistence and hard work. Mandy still inspires me today and defines strength and creativity in ways words cannot express; she probably may never know she has a die-hard fan in me. If you think disability stops dreams, you should have a rethink after reading the Mandy Harvey story.
Love,
Diane
