I’m someone who was born 4 weeks heavier than you (27 weeks) and I really understand where you’re coming from ! My heart aches a lot of times from not being understood even by those who are close to me !
Agree with you whole heartedly Valerie! My two youngest children were basically forced to finish High School at home because they were unable to function within an education system that tries to fit square kids into their round hole! Your mothers talent, love and passion for music flows through you! You go girl! :)
Valerie,that was a fabulous talk and so important.your performance of Evelyn Glennies composition was perfect.wishing you the best of luck and success in every path you take
Valerie, you should feel so proud of having the bravery to stand in front of so many and share your story. Your strength has brought you this far and I'm sure will take you to more amazing places. I'm going to show this to our high school students where I work, many of which also share "invisible disabilities" as I feel they won't feel so alone. You are beautiful inside and out, and have more friends in your corner than you will ever know. Love and hugs to you!
I teach high school in upstate NY. I try my best to model all of the points Valerie brings up, and encourage my students to do the same with the students in our school who need just a bit more to connect with. Valerie, you are wonderful, your story made me cry a little bit, but I am happy to see you thriving in your life. Your parents must be proud of you, I would be if you were my child. Stay happy. Charlie Arbuiso
Hi Valerie! We have never met, but as soon as I saw your mom's FB post that this video was up, I had to watch immediately. We were not close then, but I do remember well when you were born. So glad I watched your Ted talk! You are amazing, and you did a terrific job. And your playing was just lovely and so tranquil. Your parents must be so proud, and they must also be grateful for that nurse who defined "life" differently than many would have. Thank you for sharing your story and for making the world a better place!
Oh wow!!! What an incredible young woman you are, Valerie! Valerie if you're reading this, that was one of the most beautiful talks I've ever heard! You are incredible and brave! 💞💞💞
I'm over welmed with your maturity,grace and transparency. I learned things I didn't know about you and I've known you since you were just a few more pounds of than a 16 oz .size of a can of coke. Thank you Valerie for sharing something so personal and yet important; things I never knew. I never thought of you as having disabilities. I knew you had challenges but you and your parents faced them all head on. To me, you were and always will be a young lady of possibilities, not disabilities. I am so proud of the woman you have become and I love you. Go proudly, Lisa
This is amazing on several levels. Of course, the obvious: she got up in front of people (strangers) and told her personal story. That takes courage and a fair amount of passion. I've been a fan Valerie's mother, Robin Spielberg (an incredible pianist/performer) for literally decades, well before Valerie came into her life. I wondered if the challenges of Valerie's birth led to significant challenges in her life. But, Larry and Robin seem to be amazing parents. Instead of highlighting the obstacles in her life and the impact they have had on her and her parent, they chose to show her as a talented, intelligent and very loved person with infinite potential. We watched her grow...and it was beautiful. And, there she is, standing on that stage...beautiful. In her words, in her story, in her resilience she is a remarkable young woman. Robin and Larry: your pride in who she is must be magnificent.
This is one of the most precious and powerful talks that I've ever seen. And your music, Valerie, is so beautiful it makes me cry with joy. We have so much to learn from you. THANK YOU!!
Valerie, PROUD., FABULOUS, INSPIRING, MAGNIFICENT, just a few words to describe are words you must hear from you parents all the time. I was so beyond moved by your presentation. I grew up with your mom and know what a wonderful and loving home you were raised in. Mazel Tov on all of your accomplishments so far, I can't wait to follow your journey. I completely understand what an invisible disability is, 2 of my 3 children live with them. Like you, they don;t let it define their life, they shine in other ways! xoxo Dale
While everyone has obstacles and challenges, Valerie's story instructs us on how to deal with them with grace, and dignity. What is not invisible is your beauty, courage, and honesty. Thank you for being an inspiration to us all.
Valerie, your story is very inspiring! It touched my heart. I will go back and watch this several more times next week because I enjoy messages that inspire and uplift. You are an amazing young lady! Full of perseverance, determination, and grace in how you present yourself in a humble way. Yes, God sure had His careful hand on you during your first few precious months of life and continues to do so. Your talent on the marimba is awesome! While I do not know how to play Marimba, it amazed me how you can play two mallets in each hand. Great mastery indeed! God Bless You! Your mother and father are no doubt very proud of you!
We have come far :) since Minnesota passed the Vulnerable Adults Act. A reaction to Pres. Regan refunding State Hospitals and the hospitals were forced to shut their doors leaving all these "children " chained out in the cold. I get sad even angry when dealing with current events in our lives. Such small baby steps at times. Then I do a L-il search and realize we have so much also to be Proud of. Respect for all these and Amazing Wonderful People. #💘
Absolutely beautiful. Loved the message and how clearly and compassionately you shared it. you are a living example of a miracle and the message of your life will surely change lives. Grateful to be a witness to it. Many blessings Valerie
Valerie, I really enjoyed hearing this and learning more about some of the issues you are confronting on a daily basis. I never would have guessed from all of your accomplishments! You remind me so much of your mom as a presenter - full of poise and grace. I applaud you for speaking up as everyone has individual struggles and by sharing, you remind us all to have empathy and compassion every day! Thank you!
What an incredibly thought provoking and well delivered talk. Your talk was so inspirational and your music delightful. I can’t begin to imagine how strong and brave you are to have overcome such challenges. Thank you for the wonderful talk. Well done!
Thank you for sharing your story! I'm sure this will help to open the eyes and hearts of others as they learn to consider what 'invisible disabilities' people they encounter may have. You're a great inspiration! Loved your talk and your musical performance. Congratulations on all of you have accomplished already!
There's something seriously missing here, what about those hidden disorders which are so appalling that they utterly RUIN your WHOLE LIFE, so bad that you CANNOT work, or socialise, or court anyone, or study in a classroom etc.? what about them eh?! Such folk DO exist and DO matter, ALL disabled lives MATTER! And as for learning something like music what if any such learning is FAR too insanely overwhelming? eh? That's how it is for some folk, so bad that you can't even start! Such appalling problems DO exist so why are they ALWAYS so totally ignored?!
Excuse ME! I have appalling life ruining hidden disorders and NO-ONE EVER shows ME any "compassion", all they ever do is keep on piling more and more barriers in the way and if I complain absolutely NO-ONE ever wants to know, it's only ever the same totally CONDESCENDING attitude over and over again! Even the disability groups never want to know, it's always s-d you JACK!
![[Sub Thai] APT. - ROSÉ & Bruno Mars](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/bYjhzP8x_uc/mqdefault.jpg)
I’m someone who was born 4 weeks heavier than you (27 weeks) and I really understand where you’re coming from ! My heart aches a lot of times from not being understood even by those who are close to me !
Your mom sent me here from her TED Talk and I'm.very happy that she did. Plus you marched DCI wow!!?!
Agree with you whole heartedly Valerie! My two youngest children were basically forced to finish High School at home because they were unable to function within an education system that tries to fit square kids into their round hole! Your mothers talent, love and passion for music flows through you! You go girl! :)
I have MS. I have Epilepsy. I resonated with every word Valerie. You are a rockstar in your own life and I’m humbled by who you are!
Valerie,that was a fabulous talk and so important.your performance of Evelyn Glennies composition was perfect.wishing you the best of luck and success in every path you take
Valerie, you should feel so proud of having the bravery to stand in front of so many and share your story. Your strength has brought you this far and I'm sure will take you to more amazing places. I'm going to show this to our high school students where I work, many of which also share "invisible disabilities" as I feel they won't feel so alone. You are beautiful inside and out, and have more friends in your corner than you will ever know. Love and hugs to you!
I teach high school in upstate NY. I try my best to model all of the points Valerie brings up, and encourage my students to do the same with the students in our school who need just a bit more to connect with. Valerie, you are wonderful, your story made me cry a little bit, but I am happy to see you thriving in your life. Your parents must be proud of you, I would be if you were my child. Stay happy. Charlie Arbuiso
Hi Valerie! We have never met, but as soon as I saw your mom's FB post that this video was up, I had to watch immediately. We were not close then, but I do remember well when you were born. So glad I watched your Ted talk! You are amazing, and you did a terrific job. And your playing was just lovely and so tranquil. Your parents must be so proud, and they must also be grateful for that nurse who defined "life" differently than many would have. Thank you for sharing your story and for making the world a better place!
Oh wow!!! What an incredible young woman you are, Valerie! Valerie if you're reading this, that was one of the most beautiful talks I've ever heard! You are incredible and brave! 💞💞💞
Thank you. I have an invisible disability and you took the words right out of my mouth! Beautiful song!
I'm over welmed with your maturity,grace and transparency. I learned things I didn't know about you and I've known you since you were just a few more pounds of than a 16 oz .size of a can of coke. Thank you Valerie for sharing something so personal and yet important; things I never knew. I never thought of you as having disabilities. I knew you had challenges but you and your parents faced them all head on. To me, you were and always will be a young lady of possibilities, not disabilities. I am so proud of the woman you have become and I love you. Go proudly, Lisa
This is amazing on several levels. Of course, the obvious: she got up in front of people (strangers) and told her personal story. That takes courage and a fair amount of passion. I've been a fan Valerie's mother, Robin Spielberg (an incredible pianist/performer) for literally decades, well before Valerie came into her life. I wondered if the challenges of Valerie's birth led to significant challenges in her life. But, Larry and Robin seem to be amazing parents. Instead of highlighting the obstacles in her life and the impact they have had on her and her parent, they chose to show her as a talented, intelligent and very loved person with infinite potential. We watched her grow...and it was beautiful. And, there she is, standing on that stage...beautiful. In her words, in her story, in her resilience she is a remarkable young woman. Robin and Larry: your pride in who she is must be magnificent.
This is one of the most precious and powerful talks that I've ever seen. And your music, Valerie, is so beautiful it makes me cry with joy. We have so much to learn from you. THANK YOU!!
Valerie, PROUD., FABULOUS, INSPIRING, MAGNIFICENT, just a few words to describe are words you must hear from you parents all the time. I was so beyond moved by your presentation. I grew up with your mom and know what a wonderful and loving home you were raised in. Mazel Tov on all of your accomplishments so far, I can't wait to follow your journey. I completely understand what an invisible disability is, 2 of my 3 children live with them. Like you, they don;t let it define their life, they shine in other ways! xoxo Dale
Deeply moving, Valerie. You transcend in every way. So grateful for your TED talk.
While everyone has obstacles and challenges, Valerie's story instructs us on how to deal with them with grace, and dignity. What is not invisible is your beauty, courage, and honesty. Thank you for being an inspiration to us all.
Sooo impressive a talk... filled with valuable lessons for all of us!
Amen. :)
Valerie, your story is very inspiring! It touched my heart. I will go back and watch this several more times next week because I enjoy messages that inspire and uplift. You are an amazing young lady! Full of perseverance, determination, and grace in how you present yourself in a humble way.
Yes, God sure had His careful hand on you during your first few precious months of life and continues to do so.
Your talent on the marimba is awesome! While I do not know how to play Marimba, it amazed me how you can play two mallets in each hand. Great mastery indeed! God Bless You!
Your mother and father are no doubt very proud of you!
We have come far :) since Minnesota passed the Vulnerable Adults Act. A reaction to Pres. Regan refunding State Hospitals and the hospitals were forced to shut their doors leaving all these "children " chained out in the cold. I get sad even angry when dealing with current events in our lives. Such small baby steps at times. Then I do a L-il search and realize we have so much also to be Proud of.
Respect for all these and Amazing Wonderful People. #💘
A beautiful life...a beautiful story...a beautiful talent.
*Some disabilities are invisible, your reaction to them is not.*
Beautiful Valerie the sounds that I am hearing are sounds of Angels The expression Stay in the Present many people strive for you already possess
Absolutely beautiful. Loved the message and how clearly and compassionately you shared it. you are a living example of a miracle and the message of your life will surely change lives. Grateful to be a witness to it. Many blessings Valerie
Beautiful story, beautiful person, beautiful music!!
Wow completely related to this. Thank you.
Valerie, I really enjoyed hearing this and learning more about some of the issues you are confronting on a daily basis. I never would have guessed from all of your accomplishments! You remind me so much of your mom as a presenter - full of poise and grace. I applaud you for speaking up as everyone has individual struggles and by sharing, you remind us all to have empathy and compassion every day! Thank you!
What an incredibly thought provoking and well delivered talk. Your talk was so inspirational and your music delightful. I can’t begin to imagine how strong and brave you are to have overcome such challenges.
Thank you for the wonderful talk. Well done!
amazing sweet, brave, open woman, i related to all of it, shame the world in general doesn't, it doesn't make you 'weird' you're just unique x
Your performance was absolutely beautiful. You are quite a musician. Thank you so much for sharing that piece with us.
This story is very emotional and inspiring i try to be organized in school and study really hard
Thank you for sharing your story! I'm sure this will help to open the eyes and hearts of others as they learn to consider what 'invisible disabilities' people they encounter may have. You're a great inspiration! Loved your talk and your musical performance. Congratulations on all of you have accomplished already!
Valerie, you are inspiring and extraordinary.
Wonderful job Valerie! It warms my heart to see what an amazing, beautiful young woman you have grown into XOXO -Barrett
Bravo, Valerie! Thank you so much for sharing your inspiring story. Keep up the excellent work!
Wonderful job, Valerie. Very interesting and insightful.
Beautiful and brave. Thank you for your determination and resiliency that brought you to share this with us. xoxoxo
I was a premature baby as well
So amazing 💖
There's something seriously missing here, what about those hidden disorders which are so appalling that they utterly RUIN your WHOLE LIFE, so bad that you CANNOT work, or socialise, or court anyone, or study in a classroom etc.? what about them eh?! Such folk DO exist and DO matter, ALL disabled lives MATTER! And as for learning something like music what if any such learning is FAR too insanely overwhelming? eh? That's how it is for some folk, so bad that you can't even start! Such appalling problems DO exist so why are they ALWAYS so totally ignored?!
I should the people at my day program see this
Excuse ME! I have appalling life ruining hidden disorders and NO-ONE EVER shows ME any "compassion", all they ever do is keep on piling more and more barriers in the way and if I complain absolutely NO-ONE ever wants to know, it's only ever the same totally CONDESCENDING attitude over and over again! Even the disability groups never want to know, it's always s-d you JACK!
what's her disability anyway