This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Lily discusses the stigma of disabilities and reveals how those living with them are not defined by them.

In high school, Lily suffered a traumatic brain injury. With hard work and the help of her parents and a select few teachers, she was able to graduate, something she wasn’t sure she could do. Her own experience fueled a passion in Lily to work with individuals who have special needs, and now her entire life is dedicated to advocating and providing services to people with disabilities.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)