When it comes to dealing with a disability, sometimes it takes a creative outlet to change one’s perspective. In an exclusive story shared recently, David Soren, a talented animator known for his work on popular films like ‘Shrek,’ ‘Chicken Run,’ and ‘How to Train Your Dragon,’ reveals how drawing his disability transformed his relationship with it.
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David Soren, a Canadian native who now resides in California with his family, embarked on his animation journey after studying at Sheridan College. Little did he know that alongside his artistic talents, he would also face a challenging diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease at a young age.
For years, David kept his disease hidden, viewing it with disdain and hoping it wouldn’t interfere with his aspirations. The invisible nature of Crohn’s allowed him to conceal it from the world, fearing pity or rejection if it were known. However, as he delved deeper into his career at DreamWorks, he realized the weight of concealing such a significant part of himself.
Despite several failed attempts to share his story, the breakthrough came when David started visualizing his disease through drawings. He personified his condition as a character called Norm, allowing himself to express the anger and frustration he felt towards Crohn’s Disease in a more creative and comedic way.
Through Norm’s perspective, David began to empathize with his illness, questioning its motives and acknowledging their intertwined relationship. This shift in perception led to a broader storytelling idea, where not only his disease but other conditions around him took on personas in his narratives.
Proposing his story as an animated film titled ‘Me & My Hidden Disease,’ David witnessed a remarkable connection with his audience during the pitch. Executives shared personal experiences with similar conditions, fostering a sense of openness and understanding that transcended job titles and roles.
While the project may not have received an immediate green light, the essence of connection and shared truths became the real triumph for David. He adapted his approach and channelled his story into a book titled ‘Invisible: The (Sort of) True Story of Me and My Hidden Disease,’ aiming to inspire others to embrace their vulnerabilities and authenticity.
Reflecting on his journey, David acknowledges how his disease, embodied by Norm, has influenced his life choices and artistic pursuits. Rather than viewing it solely as a hindrance, he sees it as a driving force that shapes his resilience and passion for storytelling.
“Invisible: The (Sort of) True Story of Me and My Hidden Disease” is now available, offering a poignant and humorous take on David’s personal health journey. Through his candid storytelling and imaginative illustrations, he invites readers to embrace their own vulnerabilities and find strength in authenticity.
As David Soren’s narrative exemplifies, sometimes it takes a creative outlet to transform our relationship with adversity and find empowerment in embracing our true selves. Through the lens of art and storytelling, he invites us to navigate our challenges with courage, compassion, and a touch of humour.