Happy 16th birthday to Robby Novak, also known as the “Kid President.”
What many don’t know is that Robby suffers from osteogenisis imperfecta, also known as “Brittle bone disease.” His sister Lexi also suffers from the disease, and the two have been raised by adoptive parents.
Robby has broken over 90 bones, and had 15 surgeries. He has steel rods in both legs.
When he was nine, his brother in law was amazed at his positive attitude. No matter what happened, when he asked Robby how his day was going, Robby would always say: “Awesome.”
The brother in law decided that to start making videos showing off Robby’s attitude. The youtube videos were seen by SoulPancake, who contacted Robby about making videos for them. That is how he became “Kid President.” His enthusiasm is infectious. He quotes everyone from Robert Frost to the band Journey. He explains that his is not in a party, he is the party. Kid President is constantly challenging people to be kinder and do better.
He has interviewed President Obama, kissed Beyonce, and launched his own t.v. show. His youtube videos have been watched over 100 million times. They deliver humor and positivity that will put a lump in your throat and inspire you to overlook your shortcomings and challenges and be a more positive force upon the world.
Photo Credit: Daily Dot
Robby has also used his fame to start initiatives for the homeless, to fight hunger, and help kids with disabilities.
When asked about how he doesn’t let the disease slow him down, Robby said:
“Osteogenesis imperfecta just means that I can break sometimes. But that doesn’t mean I can’t still do awesome things. Sometimes I have a cast, sometimes I don’t. But I can always dance! You just need to remember: You were born for a reason and you have a purpose – to be awesome and to do awesome things. And you are more capable than you know.”
If you have never seen a “Kid President” video, take the next free five minutes and do it. You won’t regret it. Here are a couple:
Brittle bones do not equal brittle spirit. In this case, quite the opposite. Thank you to Kid President for being tough, resilient, and an inspiration to millions.
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