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When I was younger, fresh out of college, I was ready to chase dreams. But my family didn’t let me drive. I couldn’t borrow a car, couldn’t get rides to interviews, most of which were in Los Angeles. So I stayed put. I got rooted in the local art scene in Fullerton, sold my work in galleries, and picked up part-time jobs. That chapter had its own kind of magic, but I always knew the bigger dream still waited—like a castle at the end of a long, winding path.
Now here I am, older, wiser, and somehow braver. The Disney dream has returned, this time with momentum. I've already been redirected to more suitable positions by Disney Imagineering, which means my application didn’t fall on deaf ears—it landed in the right hands. That alone feels like a little sprinkle of pixie dust.
If I get that interview in L.A., I’m going to need some help getting there. I don’t have a car, but I do have plans. I’ll ask my social worker to help me find room and board near Glendale, where many of the Disney positions are based. Airbnb, shelters, even transitional housing—I’ll explore all of it. The truth is, when the dream is this important, you find a way. I’ll put most of my belongings in storage and travel light, with only the essentials: art supplies, sketchbooks, and my cracked iPad, which still works just fine for showing off my video and music projects.
I’m ready for anything—even if the job lands me in the theme parks. I’m a strong portrait artist. I can draw families, kids, and characters on the spot. That would be an amazing place to start while I work my way into Imagineering.
Today’s progress: Disney referred me to other roles I may be better suited for. That’s a good sign. I’m being seen, and possibly even considered. Tomorrow, I see an ENT about the lump in my neck. I’m praying for good news—that it’s not cancer. I also have court on Friday. I’m hoping the case will be diverted through mental health services, which would keep my employment prospects open. It’s all about clearing the runway for takeoff.I"m also blogging all of this on Disney Facebook groups to get their attention.
I’ve come a long way. No connections left in my hometown except a few kind souls who’ve stuck by me—you know who you are. And as Bob Dylan once said, “When you ain’t got nothin’, you got nothin’ to lose.” That’s a strange kind of freedom—and I’m using it to shoot for the stars.
Goodnight, my friend. This just might be the beginning of better days. 🌟
—Dan Joyce
Future Disney Legend in Training
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