Working as a general assignment television news reporter for KTLA 5 in Los Angeles, the types of stores that I cover, and have covered for several years as a reporter can vary from the light and fluffy stories, those of horrible crimes, to those which are extremely moving and powerful. 

On June 6, 2011, I was assigned to a very moving story and one to which I could deeply relate on many levels.  The story was about a 14 year old boy Kyle Rodas, who had battled cancer since he was 15 months old and he and his family thought that he had it beat.  However, the past October, a different type of cancer appeared, and one in which despite all of the love and support that he received, he was not able to overcome.  He passed away at the end of July, just after his 15^th birthday. 

In covering this sad story, I spent extensive time with Kyle’s family in their home in a working class Arleta , California neighborhood.  The Rodas family is a close knit Latin family and to them family is everything.  I learned that Kyle’s family put everything they had into helping Kyle get through his tough times and his father Oscar, even gave up his Job. 

When I spend time with the family after Kyle’s passing, I spoke with his sister Renee.  While I spoke with her, she said:  “I was always responsible for him.  I always felt like I needed to be there for him and protect him.”  Hearing this statement from Renee, pierced my soul. 

I have those exact same feelings and thoughts about my little brother Christian.  My brother is now 27 years old, and over 6 feet tall – but, as Renee, I feel like I have to be there for him and protect my brother.  He has extreme brain damage, is non-verbal, and still lives with my parents and will likely always do so.  While Kyle, was able to play with friends and compete in football during the period of time in which his cancer has disappeared, my brother has never done so, nor will he.

I spend a substantial amount of time with Christian.  I take him out for recreational drives around the city to look at the lights and we visit a special restaurant where he all the staff know him and make him feel at home And while many people would assume that taking care of Christian and watching him to give my parents a break are all for him, these times are very special for me, as well.  You see, I have learned a lot from Christian..  In order to communicate with him and know what he needs, I have to actually listen and hear what he is saying – not from his mouth – but from his soul.  I watch his eyes, his expressions, his mannerisms.  This helps me respond to his needs. 

This experience has helped me in my career significantly- I feel it has enabled me with the ability to ask good questions when interviewing people.  Christian has taught me to listen and truly hear what others are saying.  Christian has given me great empathy and motivation to be the best me.  I feel privileged and so grateful for my brother.  I hope Kyle and Christian inspire you to be the best you! Remember, you are limitless....

Thank you for listening! :)