Overcoming obstacles: Stories of perseverance

Making the world work better for everyone starts from within. ServiceNow is proud to honor the strength, resilience, and unique contributions of its employees who live with disabilities, as well as their allies.

Each year, in partnership with the TruAbility employee belonging group, employees come together to celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Dec. 3.

This year’s internal theme, “Empower everyone, elevate together,” shines through three employees’ inspiring stories of perseverance, empowerment, and determination.

The power of friendship

Justin M., principal certification program lead, remembers the day his life changed forever. At age 16, a car accident left him paralyzed from the waist down. Yet his best friend, Ian, whom Justin calls his “caddy for life,” never left his side.

Growing up in Arizona, Justin and Ian bonded over their shared love for golf. After the accident, Justin lost his passion for the game.

Years later, that drive returned, and he was able to represent the United States in the disabled Ryder Cup in 2018. Justin was the only seated golfer competing in his category. “I got to go out there and compete and get the chance to represent the USA,” he says with pride.

Today, Justin and Ian remain close friends, playing golf almost daily. Their story is a testament to the power of friendship in overcoming life’s toughest challenges.

Defying odds

When a neurologist told Kerrie F., manager of support account services, that her son, Nicholas, diagnosed with autism at age 2, would never speak or graduate from high school, she refused to accept it. Kerrie devoted her life to supporting her son’s development.

Through specialized schooling, dietary changes, and endless love, Nicholas defied all expectations. At age 4, he spoke his first words: “I love you, Mama.” Today, Nicholas is a student in the accounting program at the University of Central Florida—and his mom couldn’t be prouder.

Kerrie advocates for families navigating similar challenges. “Never accept the first no,” she encourages. “Stay hopeful, ask questions, and lean on others for support.”

Freedom in identity

Dimitrie I., senior renewal account manager based in Dubai, has faced numerous challenges as he’s navigated life across multiple countries and languages. Diagnosed with dyslexia while pursuing his master’s degree, Dimitrie found clarity and a renewed sense of purpose.

“When I was diagnosed, it actually was a relief,” he says. “And it was a confirmation that this is what it is. So, what’s next?”

With the unwavering support of his mentor, Dimitrie overcame the struggle to hide his dyslexia and graduated with his master’s degree in 2021. Although the graduation ceremony was virtual due to the pandemic, the moment symbolized years of determination.

“I shared all the links of graduation with everyone around the world to see me graduating,” Dimitrie says with excitement. “It was a dream come true, even that emotion in front of the computer graduating and listening to my name—just wow! It was amazing.”

Today, Dimitrie is thriving at ServiceNow. He credits the TruAbility group with helping him build confidence and excel in his career. To others who may be struggling, he gives this advice: “Be yourself. Don’t be afraid to share your story and embrace who you are.”

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