Bryce Weiler, hailing from Charleston, Illinois, has never let his visual impairment stand in the way of his aspiration to be a sportscaster. Born blind, Weiler aims to inspire people with disabilities, encouraging them to pursue their ambitions.

“Just because someone has a disability does not mean he or she cannot be successful,” Weiler said. 

To spread this message, Weiler founded the Beautiful Lives Project in 2017. This initiative hosts events across the nation, inviting disabled individuals to participate in sports, arts, and community engagements.

Recently, the Beautiful Lives Project organized a basketball camp for people with disabilities at Eastern Illinois University, where many participants enjoyed the chance to play on the court.

Special educator Jenna York brought two of her biggest basketball fans from Lawrenceville to experience the event. 

“The kids were thrilled about the opportunity to engage in the activities, meet basketball players, and simply feel included,” York commented.

Weiler shared, “Today’s event offers both adults and children the chance to build self-confidence and understand that there are opportunities to enjoy sports and pursue their dreams in life.”

Weiler has a longstanding relationship with Eastern Illinois University Men’s Basketball Head Coach Marty Simmons, whom he met while attending the University of Evansville. Simmons regards Weiler as having “the biggest heart” of anyone he knows.

Simmons also hopes that the participants build relationships with people. 

“I hope it makes them happy,” said Simmons. “I see a lot of smiles, I see a lot of high fives. Maybe they learn a little about basketball, but more than anything, the ability to connect.”

Weiler said he would love to do more events, and donations would be greatly appreciated. To learn more, visit the Beautiful Lives Project’s website.