INNISFAIL – Make the best of life and what it gives you.
That’s how Innisfail’s Zoe Oszli approaches life today.
“There’s nothing I can’t do really,” said Oszli. “There’s lots of stuff that I have trouble doing but that doesn’t mean I can’t do it.
“That’s how I’ve always lived my life. (I don’t) look at life as not being able to do something but not being able to do something yet.”
The 17-year-old was born with a rare genetic disorder called ectrodactyly, also known as cleft hand. It is often characterized by the complete or partial absence of fingers or toes.
Growing up was a challenge at times, she noted, but Oszli received plenty of support from friends, family, teachers and employers over the years.
“My family was very supportive. They always made sure that they didn’t look at my hands as a disability but rather as a step to overcome,” said Oszli. “I’m so grateful for that because I look at life a lot differently now than I think I might have.
“My parents have always (said) don’t let this hold you down,” she added. “I try to let my personality show through more than my hands.”
Oszli will be entering Grade 12 at Innisfail High School this September, and has learned to adapt over the years in school and at part-time jobs. She has learned to use technology, a cellphone, to write and play sports.
“I just worked through it. I tried to (be independent) and someone who needed less help in school,” she said. “I wanted to be treated like everybody else.”
One area that helped Oszli stay positive and to appreciate is music.
“I was always attracted to the stringed instruments,” said Oszli. “I wanted to play the violin or guitar.”
While she often thought her genetic disorder would keep her from learning a stringed instrument, a friend introduced her to the ukulele a year and a half ago, and the rest is history.
“I fell in love with it. I got a ukulele three days later,” said Oszli. “I’ve been playing it ever since.
“I’ve never had any lessons. I taught myself how to play just by looking at chords,” she added.
In addition, Oszli has not let her ectrodactyly stop her from being an active part of the community.
Last February, she was invited to perform on her ukulele at a local fundraiser with the Welcoming Communities Committee.
She has also volunteered in the past with the Innisfail Girl Guides.
“I’ve been in Girl Guides for 12 years, since I was a Spark,” said Oszli. “They’re like a (second) family to me.”
