Miracle Milestones

Santa Rosa, CA, June 2008

Just back from her trip to the Great Wall in China, Liesel Magnuson has proven that her wheelchair and her disabilities hold no barriers for her. Against all odds, and refusing to be bound by her limitations, she relates her experiences on this most recent trip as well as past experiences in her musically inspired presentation, "Miracle Milestones."

Through her music as a percussionist and composer, and as a speaker, Liesel captivates her audience. Follow her journey from the miracle of her survival at birth, to the person she is today. As she tells her story through her words and through her music, audiences learn about living with disabilities and how to raise awareness that can make a difference in the community. 

Born paralyzed from the waist down, there was no specific diagnosis of Liesel’s condition. As severe physical and learning disabilities became apparent, Liesel underwent numerous surgeries, stringent regimes of physical and speech therapy, and special tutoring. Taking her first steps in corrective braces at the age of two-and-a-half, Liesel was chosen as the1984–1986 Sonoma County Easter Seals Poster Child when she was five years old. Despite her limited speech capabilities and young age, Liesel never hesitated in speaking before large groups such as nearly all the Sonoma County Rotary clubs and many church congregations.

Overcoming these insurmountable odds, Liesel today is a young, independent woman, college student, experienced percussionist, music composer, and an articulate inspirational speaker. She has traveled to the Dominican Republic, Greece, and most recently to China to share her story. Liesel revels in sharing the story of her amazing life's journey with infectious enthusiasm, for the disabled and non-disabled alike.

05/16/2008
Article published in 12millionlives.com describing Liesel's trip to China and her experience claiming the Great Wall.

Link: http://www.12millionlives.com/community/node/148