Hi! My name is Michael Joe Lanari, also known as MJ the DJ, and I am writing this to share the lifelong impact Easterseals has had on my journey.
From the time I was a three-year-old in preschool at Easterseals, I dreamed of being in the entertainment field and becoming a DJ. Through the foundation I received in speech, occupational, physical, and developmental therapies, I was able to turn that dream into a reality. Today, at 24 years old, I am actively building my career as a DJ and in the entertainment field.
With the continued encouragement of my family and Easterseals, I am always pursuing my dreams and new goals. Recently, I have achieved my dream of living semi-independently in my own apartment with the support of daily living services from Easterseals Arkansas. I enjoy the feeling of being a young adult with my own style of a home and the responsibilities that come along with it.
I am currently working on another dream of developing a "Special Bachelor" series, either locally or nationally, I believe that audiences would enjoy seeing how a young man with disabilities navigates the interesting world of love and lifestyles. Of course, I want to star as the first "Special Bachelor". When I dream, I dream big!
I am incredibly grateful for the vital role Easterseals has played in my independence and success. In my free time, I continue to enjoy traveling, bowling, music, and gaming.