NICHOLAS D'AGOSTINO - What's Holding You Down? Motivational Speaker from Sussex, NJ

Nicholas Albert D'Agostino was born on August 15th, 1989. He is the proud son of Albert and Susan D'Agostino, the inspired identical twin brother of Anthony D'Agostino, and the blessed fiance of Breelagh DuHaime. His parents tried for many years to have children and finally gave birth to twins! Raised in Wantage, New Jersey, Nicholas and his twin brother Anthony were diagnosed with a muscle disease called Spinal Muscular Atrophy at 18 months old and were both confined to power wheelchairs at the young age of 6. At 8 years old, Nicholas underwent spine surgery for scoliosis, received a steel rod in his back, developed a malicious staph infection, and spent the entire Summer of 1998 fighting for his life. Today, he fights for the lives of others. Nicholas, using his disability to inspire others, is one of the most influential young people around. He is a riveting motivational speaker, author, and rising leader in his hometown. His spoken word poetry, which he implements in his speeches, is highly acclaimed and has been featured on international television on the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon. During his teenage years, Nicholas realized that he would never be average. In his situation, he estimated that he could either be a source of pity or a source of inspiration. Fueled by his faith and his positive attitude, he chose the latter. Since the inception of his decision to be a motivator, he has inspired literally millions of lives with his story and outlook on life. His message has brought him from coast to coast in the United States. He has been featured on and in television, radio, and print around the world. CURRENT FLIGHT LESSONS (PROGRAMS) (UP From Here LLC): GRAVITY (can be adapted for all ages and groups) Nicholas performs his internationally recognized poem "Gravity" and elaborates on the ideas within its words. He explains how gravity is our main nemesis in life, as it prevents him from walking, all of us from flying, makes us fall, and holds us down. How can we remedy this? We have to turn this world around! Nicholas shares his inspiring strategy! FOR SCHOOLS Nicholas focuses on the fact that each of us have "gravity" in our lives and that we need to be respectful of each other's gravity. He delivers a strong anti-bullying message by holding students accountable for their past, so that they can live a better and more peaceful future! FOR CORPORATE Nicholas focuses on the individual and helps them recognize what their "gravity" is, so that each unique person can rise above and become the leader and contributor that they were destined to become! FOR BELIEVERS Nicholas focuses on each person's relationship with Christ and explains how the closer we get to the world, the more "gravity" that we have in our life! He demonstrates how worldly things can come between us and the Lord and could ultimately sacrifice our God-given potential! *MUST BE HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE* **ALL EXPENSES INCLUDED**