Rodney Ellis....
Several years ago my mountain biking route often took me through Campbell Park where one day I noticed a happy, smiling fellow in a power wheelchair parked alongside the trail in a somewhat remote location. It struck me as interesting seeing such a man sitting out there alone, no caretaker in sight, clearly content within himself, gazing at the sky, watching the sunset form, smiling as honking geese flew by in formation, taking in life's simple pleasures. My wave was immediately greeted in like manner with the added bonus of an enormous smile, twinkling eyes and a radiant countenance you could spot from a mile - at high speed. This contagious smile compelled me to screech on brakes to say hello to this curiously bright, alert, friendly fellow whose body and vocal capabilities did not function like the average person yet whose warm smile and happy demeanor made any worries or problems which might have been troubling me melt away as quickly as snow in a roaring campfire. This was my first Welcome to Rodney Central....
After those first awkward attempts to communicate I realized I was being "charmed" by Rodney Ellis, a remarkable man I am now happy to call a good friend. As a lifelong photojournalist I was not unaccustomed to being around folks in wheelchairs yet there was something instantly and absolutely captivating about Rodney - Rodney is genuinely special. Rodney's the real deal. Look out Rainman - the "Rodman" is in the house....
Rodney can be seen motoring around San Jose at just about any time of the day or night, entirely independent, completely confident, boarding trains and buses while waving and laughing towards the shout of yet another friend driving past screaming "HEY RODNEY!!!!!". When you travel around town with Rodney be prepared to hear lots of yelling; sometimes it seems like everyone knows and loves Rodney. Rodney is a great example of why the word "handicapped" is not an appropriate term.
Since you are on Rodney's website it's likely you've met Rodney and wish to know more about him. Rodney, who has Cerebral Palsy, was born in Oklahoma City, Ok 35 years ago. Although Rodney may initially seem difficult to understand, rest assured he is 110% all there! Rodney understands everything you say and, although speech is sometimes challenging, will respond to all your comments and questions - in plain English - just listen for the vocal cadence of happiness. In fact, once "you" adjust your ears, Rodney's speech is quite easy to understand. Give him a moment to respond - he does not need your help. A bit of patience will reveal that our man Rodney has much to say if you merely give him a moment to collect his vocal cords. The payoff for your patience is Rodney's almost childlike innocence conceals an impishly charming cleverness; the twinkle in his eyes charms your socks off... Rodney makes your day!
When Rodney was asked if he wished to say anything in particular in this forum his instant response was: "Please tell them I'm not retarded.," a comment which likely reveals the effect of naive presumptions this intelligent young man has had to endure throughout his life. When pressed to add other comments Rodney reflected for a long moment and followed with: "Tell them people with CP are special - we have a special gift. We touch people."
At a recent event honoring Rodney it was apparent Rodney does indeed touch people - the turnout was in the hundreds and the atmosphere was jubilant. The astonishing outpouring of support at this event spoke volumes about how we feel about Rodney. Still, in our efforts to do something for Rodney one consistent and obvious truth always presents itself: Rodney's incredible spirit and humanity touches and helps "us" far more than our meager efforts help Rodney. As Rodney points out, people with CP really are special... THANK YOU, Rodney!!!!!!!
Gary
"Friends of Rodney"
