If You Can’t Walk Try Flying takes readers to a new perspective in life. A memoir of someone who has struggled all her life yet remained optimistic regardless, the book opens people’s eyes to the beauty of life they often overlook.
Hello, My name is Marinela Drop! I was born in Bucharest, Romania, on a morning winter day. Like any typical child, I played and laughed—though I couldn’t walk.
My brother and I were diagnosed with a congenital degenerative neuromuscular disease that couldn’t be treated. Despite this, our childhood was filled with learning and joy. We were homeschooled and supported by classmates and teachers who visited us for tests. During this time, my love for Romanian and English language and literature blossomed; I devoured books, wrote stories, and immersed myself in music.
I’m naturally curious and always dive deep into subjects that fascinate me. This passion for learning has been a big part of my journey.
When I was young, I became the president of the fan club for one of Romania’s leading singers: Gabriel Cotabiță. This role opened new doors, helping me discover and use talents I didn’t know I had. My world began to expand, and I started to fully embrace my abilities.
The Inspiration for If You Can’t Walk, Try Flying
In 2008, my life changed when I found love and decided to move to another country. This marked the beginning of a new chapter filled with growth and exploration. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I found the time and inspiration to start writing, which led to my book, If You Can’t Walk, Try Flying.
If You Can’t Walk, Try Flying is a heartfelt account of my life in Romania. It’s dedicated to those who feel hopeless, lacking the willpower to push forward and embrace life’s beauty. Through my story, I aim to inspire and uplift, showing that no matter the challenges we face, there is always a way to rise above them.
Who Is the Book For?
My book isn’t just for people with disabilities; it’s for everyone. I hope readers will see that we all share the same basic needs and desires in life—to love and be loved, and to find happiness. I want my story to encourage others to look beyond preconceived notions and treat everyone with kindness and respect. We all deserve to be treated with dignity, no matter who we are or what we can or cannot do.
I want this book to reach those who, due to a disability, personal challenges, or other circumstances, find themselves dependent on the people around them—family, friends, society. These individuals often see themselves as victims, living a life they cannot control, merely accepting what others build for them day by day.
We Are Not Born Just to Die But to Live!
For them and for those around them, I offer a new perspective on life. We are not born just to die but to live! Life is meant to be lived fully and joyfully. We all deserve this right, regardless of how many or few gifts we were given at birth. Some may lack physical abilities, others emotional strength; some may struggle with courage, others with faith. There are countless situations we can overcome by embracing who we are and demanding more from life.
Living with spinal muscular atrophy, I have always told myself, “Yes, I can.” To show that my ability is stronger than my disability, I have shared my life experience in this book. Through my journey, I want to show YOU and everyone that it is possible to achieve your dreams. Everything is possible!
I adore the sea and the sun, writing and listening to music, spending time with friends, and cherishing moments with my cats, Iuby and Sara. I also love watching movies and TV cooking shows. My zest for life is unwavering, and I firmly believe that each of us is born to fly.
I named my book If You Can’t Walk, Try Flying because we should strive to soar every day with our thoughts and hearts, ultimately reaching the Universe. Come and fly with me!
I’d like to thank Author’s Lounge for giving me the opportunity to talk about myself and my book.
