Sam Houston State University alum shares his journey of overcoming cerebral palsy to empower others through his book and business.
Broderick Nixon, a Sam Houston State University alum and motivational speaker, has never let his disability define him. Born with cerebral palsy, Nixon has spent his life inspiring others with his resilience, determination, and ability to overcome the obstacles that often accompany such a diagnosis. Nixon’s latest effort, Broderick Bear Learns to Ride: A Dreams to Actuality Disability Inclusion Story, is the first in a series of children’s books aimed at promoting inclusivity and empowering young readers with disabilities.
“I was born with cerebral palsy, and I live through that,” Nixon explained. “But what made me overcome it is when I was in the hospital. I was eight years old, and I saw other kids who were worse off than me. They looked like they had given up. From that point, I promised God that if I didn’t end up like those kids, I would never give up on anything I wanted to achieve in life.”
Despite facing significant physical challenges, Nixon, now 38, enrolled at Sam Houston State University (SHSU) after initially attending Lone Star College. At SHSU, Nixon’s journey took an unexpected turn when he became involved with the university’s football program, meeting several players and even interning with the team. This opportunity helped him break out of his shell and gain confidence.
“I met some players on the football team, and they introduced me to their coach,” Nixon recalled. “From that moment on, it got me out of my shell. I wasn’t afraid to meet anybody anymore. I was making friends, introducing myself to everyone.”
Nixon graduated in 2022 with a degree in integrated studies. However, his journey at SHSU was about more than academics. It was here that he founded his business, Dreams to Actuality, with the mission of helping others achieve their dreams, no matter their physical limitations.
“My dream was to travel the world because it’s a whole big world out there,” Nixon said. “And I wanted to tell the world that just because you’re in a wheelchair or have a disability doesn’t mean you have to stop chasing your dreams.”
Through his business, Nixon aims to empower others with disabilities by sharing his story as a motivational speaker. His book, Broderick Bear Learns to Ride, serves as a powerful tool for children facing similar challenges, showing them that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. The book has already garnered significant praise and even hit the top spot in children’s literature on Amazon shortly after its release.
“There’s a kid out there like me, and if they see someone who actually did it, it gives them the confidence to do it,” Nixon shared. “The response has been amazing. The reviews have been great, and when the book came out, it was a number one bestseller.”
Nixon’s goal with the book series is to help both children with disabilities and those without gain a deeper understanding of inclusivity. “My book teaches children that everyone is capable and can be included when they have the right tools and accommodations,” Nixon said.
As Nixon continues to inspire through his writing and public speaking, his message is clear: no dream is too big, and no obstacle is too great. With his second book already in the works, Nixon is committed to sharing his story and helping others along their own journeys.
“I want to thank everyone who has come into my life because they all played a role,” Nixon said. “But when people look at me, I want the wheelchair to be the last thing they see. I want them to see me.”
Broderick Nixon’s Broderick Bear Learns to Ride is available for purchase on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4dadv8M, and more information can be found on his website at brodericknixon.com.
More About Broderick Nixon
A graduate of Sam Houston State University, Broderick Nixon has turned his life experiences into a platform to inspire others. Born with cerebral palsy, Nixon defied the odds by not only completing his education but also establishing his own business, Dreams to Actuality. Through motivational speaking and children’s literature, Nixon advocates for disability inclusion and encourages others to follow their dreams, no matter the challenges they face.
