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Defying Limits: My Life as a Speaker, Scientist, Disability Justice Advocate, and Athlete
My name is Dr. David Garcia, and I am a Colombian-American public speaker, scientist, advocate, and professional wheelchair rugby player.
I was born with a rare neurological disorder called Moebius syndrome, which has presented numerous challenges throughout my life. From an early age, I understood what it meant to face adversity. But more importantly, I learned the power of resilience. Despite these challenges, I refused to be defined by my circumstances. I pushed forward, knowing that failure is not the end—it's a stepping stone.
I earned my Ph.D. in Chemistry from Brown University and became a scientist in the biotechnology industry at Siemens Healthineers, where I worked on cutting-edge biomarker discovery projects for neurodegenerative diseases. My career hasn’t been without setbacks, but every obstacle has only strengthened my belief that we can always rise above our challenges.
In addition to my work in science, I have played for the Colombian National Wheelchair Rugby team at the highest level, including competing in the 2023 Parapan American Games in Chile. I’ve also spent 4 years as a public speaker, sharing my story at events like the Moebius Syndrome Foundation Conference (as a keynote speaker), the U.S. Department of Justice, and Microsoft. Through these experiences, I speak from a place of understanding failure, frustration, and hardship—but also of knowing that resilience and determination can lead to profound success.
As a disability justice advocate, I have actively contributed to Positive Exposure, a non-profit dedicated to changing perceptions of disability. On the Junior Board from 2021 to 2022, I helped expand our supporter base, raised funds, and developed key programs like the “Day in the Life” project and “The Lounge,” a social network for adults with disabilities. In 2020, I was part of the Action Committee, where I worked with young professionals to organize the annual gala, raising $100K for the organization.
I am deeply passionate about raising awareness and creating a world where people with disabilities can truly excel. My commitment to disability justice drives me to challenge stereotypes, advocate for inclusion, and promote understanding. By supporting initiatives and organizations that elevate voices and opportunities for people with disabilities, I strive to break down barriers and foster environments where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and reach their full potential.
Navigating Challenges: Triumphs in Science and Beyond
In 2014, I began my PhD in Chemistry at Brown University under the guidance of my academic advisors, Dr. Phyllis Dennery and Dr. Hongwei Yao. I joined Dr. Dennery’s lab, which focused on pediatric pulmonology. Working in a laboratory involves conducting experiments that require a high level of dexterity, which can be challenging without full use of one’s fingers. I struggled initially, but empowered by my past successes and driven by my vision, I persevered. I adapted and overcame the technical challenges, allowing my research to flourish.
My dedication paid off as I was awarded an internal fellowship by the Brown Respiratory Training Program and a prestigious external predoctoral fellowship from the National Institutes of Health. In May 2020, I successfully defended my doctoral thesis titled “Short Exposure to Hyperoxia Causes Mitochondrial Dysregulation and Cellular Senescence.” By October 2020, my research was published as a first author in the peer-reviewed medical journal Pediatric Research. I graduated from Brown, becoming the first person in my family of Colombian immigrants to earn a PhD from an Ivy League university.
After completing my academic journey, I joined Siemens Healthineers, a leader in Diagnostics, as a scientist in their Center for Innovation in Diagnostics (CID). There, I worked with a multidisciplinary R&D team to discover biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, contributing to a forthcoming publication and deepening my expertise in dementia. As a program manager for grant initiatives, I led a team of 8 R&D scientists, managed grant proposals, drafted and edited application documents, updated Standard Operating Procedures, and led meetings to track project progress and resource allocation.
One of my mentors once told me that I was ahead of my time by 15 years and that academia was not yet prepared to enable the success of students with disabilities. I take pride in this recognition and in my role as a leader for people with disabilities in the scientific field.
Rick guidotti and me at positive
Moebius Syndrome
Moebius syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that is present at birth and characterized by the inability to move facial and ocular muscles. This condition arises from deficiencies in the function of the 6th and 7th cranial nerves, which are crucial for controlling facial expressions and eye movements. Individuals with Moebius syndrome may also experience additional symptoms such as anomalies in the hands or feet, visual impairments, sensory integration dysfunction, and reduced upper body strength.
Despite these challenges, Moebius syndrome does not define one's potential. Those born with Moebius often develop unique strengths and capabilities, navigating their world with remarkable resilience and adaptability. The condition presents obstacles, but it also fosters a profound sense of determination and creativity in overcoming them. People with Moebius syndrome embody the belief that, no matter the difficulties faced, we all have the capacity to rise above our circumstances and achieve greatness.
Ultimately, Moebius syndrome is a testament to the limitless potential within each person. It highlights the extraordinary ability to adapt, thrive, and contribute in meaningful ways, proving that limitations are not barriers but opportunities to showcase one's true strength.