Find out how you can nominate a “Hero of the Week” at the bottom of the page.
Throughout the week, our ACC Team searches through emails and news articles looking for someone who deserves to be the Hero of the Week…
This week, we’d like to recognize the first actress in a wheelchair to ever win one of Broadway’s highest honors – The Tony. The 31-year-old actress Ali Stroker took home “Best Featured Actress in a Musical” for her role as Ado Annie in Broadway’s revival of Oklahoma.
At only two years of age, Ali became paralyzed from the chest down after sustaining injuries in a car accident. Even though she was in a wheelchair, she had a desire to perform. She continued on and starred in numerous high school productions and even got a role on TV’s Glee.
In her Tony acceptance speech, Ali dedicated her award to every kid watching at home who has a disability, limitation, or challenge who has a desire to see themselves in this arena.
The outpouring from fans has been overwhelming and so many have thanked Ali for being a role model for kids who didn’t think that performing was an option for them. Ali said that her drive to perform has always been there. The world may have said no but her parents never did.
On the night of her win, Ali’s parents said, “We are so proud of you. You belong here.” And, she certainly does!
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Kix’s Response:
Ali Stroker, for your ability to pursue your dreams regardless of limitations people might put on you and for inspiring so many children, we salute you as our Hero. And, congratulations on winning your first Tony… Hopefully, it’s the first of many.
Nominate a Hero of the Week
Now, we want to know who has made a difference in your life. Nominate a local firefighter, police officer, EMT or someone who is serving our country in the military. It could even be a neighbor, family member or friend who lent a crucial helping hand. Let us know all about the person who you feel is a real life hero by emailing us here and please feel free to send us a picture!
