Today is my birthday.
Not just another year older — but proof I’m still here.
I was born different.
The stares, the whispers, the “poor you” smiles… I learned to read them before I could read books.

Every prosthesis, every scar, every moment I felt less-than — they tried to write my ending.
But I refused.
Today I don’t hide. I don’t shrink.
I look in the mirror and see a warrior who chose to rise when the world said sit down.
So no, don’t just say “HBD.”
Celebrate that I’m still fighting. Still loving. Still me — unapologetically.
And if you’re reading this and ever felt broken:
Your difference isn’t a flaw. It’s your fire.

Every breath you take is victory.
You are still here.
That’s not survival — that’s legendary.
Keep going. The world needs your light.