Dorothy Paad loves to create – whether it is a song, a dance, a theater production, a book. She doesn’t let having Cerebral Palsy stand in her way! It was during the COVID-19 pandemic that Dorothy was inspired to write her first book hoping to inspire kids in a way she wishes she had been. Today, she continues to share her story so that others may realize their potential and never stop pursuing their dreams.

Dorothy puts her heart and soul into all that she does. Each of her books reflects important moments in her life and highlights the people who have supported her along the way. Among the many people that have inspired her work are her father, Eric and brother, Andrew, who served in the United States Air Force and United States Army respectively; and her best friend and role model, Alice, whom she calls, mom.

In addition to her work in the writing and performing arts, Dorothy also works as an advocate for individuals with disabilities and caregivers as the spokesperson for the Caregiver Incentive Project. Her own in-home caregiver, Tracy, makes a valuable difference in her life — helping her to live her life to the fullest. In an effort to prepare future teachers for inclusive classrooms, Dorothy is also an Instructional Coach for the Northern Michigan University School of Education.

She is the recipient of a MI-UCP (United Cerebral Palsy Association) Closing the Disability Divide Award and a volunteer with Lake Superior Life Care & Hospice. Dorothy is also a member of the Upper Peninsula Publishers & Authors Association and Marquette Alger Reading Council.

Dorothy loves to read, learn about history, and participate in the performing arts. She also enjoys traveling — counting among her favorite trips, London, and visits to various Disney theme parks. In her free time, Dorothy also finds enjoyment in exploring the Internet and watching her favorite TV shows and movies. Having been born and raised in Washington State, Dorothy now lives in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in the city of Marquette.