Below is the transcript of Christina Cislak’s speech at The Care Center’s Annual Fundraising Party on May 15, 2025.
My name is Christina Cislak. I am a 24-year-old mom of two. I was born with a rare condition called Hermansky Pudlak Syndrome that causes albinism and visual impairment. I am also a skilled artist, poet, and writer.
Putting on My Crown
I am here because I decided to take my education back into my own hands, put my crown on and invest in my family’s future. I started my journey in the high school-level program and graduated as Valedictorian of my class. From there, I went straight to Bard Microcollege, eager to earn my associate degree. But I had to take a break. I overloaded my schedule and was struggling mentally, although my academic performance may have shown otherwise.
Last spring, I moved into my parents’ house with my two children and few months later I re-enrolled in Bard. Since then, I have been striving for the better in every aspect of my life. Although this hasn’t been easy, I am taking life one day at a time.
I am passionate about dedicating my life and career to helping adolescents who struggle with mental health. My plans are to finish my degree from Bard, and then pursue a degree in social work and art, with the aim of a career in art therapy. Just as I have been shown at The Care Center, I will use fun and creative ways to promote self-expression and emotional regulation in a way that feels exciting.
The Season of Receiving
Currently I am in a season of receiving. As someone who was born disabled, I have had a hard time finding places that were able to support my needs, but The Care Center has been that one hidden gem, offering everything I have needed, from transportation, to daycare, support councilors, and a strong community of other women.
This has allowed me to achieve things that I would never have imagined possible. It also nurtured parts of me I ignored, like my love for art, poetry and learning. The experience I have had at The Care Center has shaped me into the woman and mother I am today, and the woman who will be a source of inspiration for adolescents in the future.
As many of you may relate, my life has had moments of throwing fiery darts at me, but I have been fortunate to have a safe space at The Care Center. Just being there is uplifting. It is truly a place I just can’t stay away from. It’s easy to say that after my first day at the Care Center, my life has changed for the better forever, not just for myself, but for my children.
