A Conversation with Gaelynn Lea

Painiac: The Podcast On Living Well Even When Life Hurts

It’s rare when you meet a person with contagious optimism, a bright, big spirit, and riveting talent, but musician and disability rights advocate, Gaelynn Lea, is one of these rare and inspiring souls. Gaelynn Lea was recently named the winner of NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest. She has been playing violin for over twenty years. Gaelynn also regularly speaks publicly about disability, overcoming challenges, and the joy of music. She lives with a congenital disability called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, or commonly known as Brittle Bones Disease. In recent years, she has used her music as a platform to advocate for people with disabilities and to promote positive social change. Gaelynn believes society must make accessibility a priority so people with disabilities can participate fully in their communities and use their talents and gifts without discrimination.