Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Martinez.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Crystal. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My life growing up with sickle cell anemia became something I was used to. I didn’t complain and I refused to let it affect me and my family. However, it wasn’t until late 1994 that it changed my life forever. Everything happened so fast it was such a big blur. I remembered I was telling my mother about a pain; next thing I know I ended up in the hospital for pneumonia. The last thing I remembered was saying goodbye, I felt my time was up. I closed my eyes and ended up in a coma for five and a half months. My journey has been a long one, and I’ve made sure to accomplish as much as I can. I graduated from Hunter College and I plans to return in hope of pursuing my Master’s degree. I Joined ASL Discoveries in 2016, I loved their goal and their passion for building the bridge between the Deaf and hearing world. It inspired me to make a difference in the lives of others, like a sickle cell warrior and a deaf woman.
Has it been a smooth road?
My journey has never been easy. Sickle cell anemia often has an unexpected crisis in which I have to drop everything and go to the ER. I learned to always have hope and fight, never give up no matter what obstacles are thrown at you. Since working with ASL Discoveries, I have never met such a wonderful kind soul that has supported me and be understanding when it comes to my health. I believe you truly need to live each day fully because you don’t what’s around the corner, be passionate about what you do. It also important to be fearless and no matter how many time you fall keep getting up and fight.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I have several roles in this company which is as an ASL teacher/tutor and blogger. I travel to different school locations teaching American Sign Language also I teach ASL through music. As a blogger, I make Video blogs teaching a short lesson in ASL. What I love about this company is being able to spread awareness about Deaf culture and building the bridge between hearing and Deaf world.
Which women have inspired you in your life? Why?
The person who inspired me is my mother. She is the reason I am even still alive and fighting for my life every day. she gave me hope and faith. If it was not for her and her belief I wouldn’t be here today to share my story. I remembered growing up all I ever heard was bad news when it comes to sickle cell anemia. There was never any good news. My mother always made the best out of it, whatever bad news they told her she will always say no and made sure I keep on fighting. No matter what happens in life I make sure I gave it my all and be the warrior that I am.
Contact Info:
- Website: asldiscoveries.com
- Phone: 516-697-2933
- Email: lafamosa87@yahoo.com
- Instagram: ASL_Discoveries
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverASL/
Image Credit:
photo credit: Farrah Beck, Vanessa Estevez
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