Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Solis.
Michelle, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I had discovered that I had hip dysplasia my entire life, a genetic disorder in which the hip joint is the wrong shape and fails to completely support the femoral head. My bones pinched together due to the lack of support my hip bone had due to its disfigurement. I developed a labrum tear because of the pinching. The only solution was Periacetabular Osteotomy surgery where certain bones would be cut and the hip would be repositioned correctly into the hip socket.
The first month after surgery, I was depressed. I was in a wheelchair, binge eating, not exercising, craving the studio and the movement that I loved. As I was bedridden, I realized how much dance was a part of me. After I plummeted down so low, a fire then sparked and I was more motivated than ever to dance forever. It didn’t matter what mountains I had to climb or storms I had to walk through, I was accepting these challenges and looking them in the eyes with pure challenge. Before my hip surgery, I never viewed dance as a career option; and rationalized that I should reach for other careers instead of dance either because I thought I was incompetent or it didn’t make enough money. Truthfully, I was making excuses not to do what I loved because I was terrified of the precarious future. My hip surgery allowed me to overcome my fears and embrace what I loved with no hesitation, just admiration.
Three months using crutches turned into two. Although the doctors said I would be dancing a year after surgery, I was in the studio in June, only four months after surgery. I changed majors in my school from Creative Writing to Dance. I was dancing more hours than ever before, at school and after school, gaining strength every day. In February, I attended the Regional High School Dance Festival and received several scholarships from colleges like Cornish, University of the Arts, Modas and other universities for their summer dance programs.
After a few follow-ups with my doctor reached out and gave me the opportunity to be a Rady Children’s Pediatric Spokeswoman. From then on, I appeared on the local news, the hospital’s magazine, on the radio, and other events to raise money for the pediatric unit and inspire children my age. When I had these opportunities to share my stories, I feel honored to be able to motivate kids like me, that have dreams of face the difficulties of being disabled and not living the same life as before facing these feelings all alone is terrifying. I always let them know that they aren’t alone and that my story is not a miracle or something extraordinary, but just a recovery that blossomed from hope, love, blood, sweat, tears and a dream.
Has it been a smooth road?
This recovery wasn’t extraordinary in nature but it was special to me. It was difficult mentally, physically and spiritually but my heart finally led the way when for most of my life I’d let my brain have control. I believed that my logic and reasoning protected me from the harsh reality of the world. Having hip surgery opened my eyes and made me realize how much dance truly meant to me, and how I needed to share this joy with others. Once I let my feelings reign free I could power through anything. The back of my mind said, “you’ll never make it as a dancer” but the tears I shed in my wheelchair said, “dancing is all I want to do.” I discovered that the key to living the life I wanted was in my soul the entire time. My feelings are powerful. As women, we are always told we’re are. emotional with a negative connotation, but our emotions are our power. Our love, our passion, are gifts. How powerful is it to care so much that it draws tears? Overcoming this injury and time of discouragement was possible as I accepted the caged artist inside of me, with passion waiting to be showcased to the world. I needed to finally cry, stop caring about the silliness of my emotions. Because these desires aren’t silly, they are grand and led me on my way. I had nothing to prove, no one to spite, but a passion and determination that led me to the path that destiny always held for me.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am a young dancer, at 17, I have received scholarships from colleges and have participated in dance competitions and festivals. I attend the San Diego School of Creative and Performing arts and after school, I always train at my ballet studio. I do what I love every day, dedicated to seeing my future become a reality. I also model with local photographers and videographers to share my love for dance. I am a versatile dancer and artist. I love to discover different sides of artistry and collaborate with other artists. I’ve been in music videos and films at my school since I am surrounded by so many creative minds.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
My sister has been someone I’ve always dreamed of becoming. Being one of the first in our family to attend college, she pursued her dream of being an artist (artistic director and graphic designer.) She attended San Diego State University, The Art Institute, and San Diego Portfolio Studio. She was always drawing as a child and in her teen years, telling me that as long as I did what I loved, I’ll make it. She made me realize that the myths that artists can’t be financially stable and follow their career is a lie. She won outstanding awards at the age of 19 such as the Graphis New Talent Annual 2015, and the National Gold – Mini Maglite Tiny But Bright award. I would like to win awards like her someday. From being a shy kid to a freelance. art director doing what she loves.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 858-220-5656
- Email: michelleangelicasolis@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelleangelicasol/
Image Credit:
Chullet Photography, Cabo Adventures
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