Milwaukee man with cerebral palsy inspires others through music

MILWAUKEE — Jaquawn Gaston is at all times on the transfer. Whether or not it’s the music studio, the mall or simply downtown Milwaukee, he stated he likes to exit.

Gaston has cerebral palsy and depends on his electrical wheelchair to get round. 

“Ever since I may bear in mind I had a wheelchair to assist transfer me round,” stated Gaston.

However for the previous month, he’s been confined to his bed room. 

“I used to be crossing the road, and I simply rolled up a sidewalk and it stopped out of the blue,” stated Gaston.

Gaston stated the insurance coverage firm is uncertain when his electrical wheelchair will probably be mounted and the associated fee for a brand new one is hundreds of {dollars}. 

Within the meantime, he’s utilizing a handbook wheelchair, however he’s unable to wheel himself round with out assist. 

“I needed to depart out of the home and go locations and I can’t,” stated Gaston.

Whereas his mates are serving to him increase cash for a brand new electrical wheelchair by GoFundMe, he’s doing what he can to maintain his spirits excessive.

For Gaston, meaning rapping. Ever since he was a younger boy, Gaston stated he’s had a ardour for music. He goes by the identify Rap J and has albums and music movies on streaming platforms.

“I don’t imply to brag or sound foolish, however I don’t suppose they’re prepared for me once I get my wheels again,” stated Gaston. “It’s pedal to the steel for positive.” 

Certainly one of Gaston’s greatest followers is his caregiver, Wanda Webb. She’s been with him for six years. 

“In the course of the time I met Jaquawn, I simply misplaced my youngest son as a consequence of victims of violence in Milwaukee,” stated Webb. “He’s actually crammed that void for me.”

She stated his drive to reach life is inspiring regardless of the present obstacles. 

“To see him not have the ability to stand up and transfer round when he needs to sort of crushes me,” stated Webb. “We keep up to the mark. We attempt to make the perfect of it as a lot as we will.” 

Gaston stated he’ll proceed to work on his music and are available out of this stronger than earlier than. 

“Perspective is energy,” stated Gaston. “In case you have the proper mindset, you will get by something.”