OHIO — It was a moment in time for Kelsi Weaver, that she would always remember.

Ohio’s governor had invited her when he would address the State of the State speech.

The governor presented Weaver as an example of success.

“‘Let’s now look at the Ohioans who we can help create more opportunities by removing the roadblocks that slow them down," Gov. Mike DeWine, R-Ohio, said. "I’m so happy and very pleased to have Kelsi here with us today on the House floor. Please give her a round of applause."

Growing up, Weaver was a cheerleader and participated in the marching band of her school.

She said her family always supported her and encouraged her to follow whatever it was she loved to do. Weaver began a blog called "Powerfully Disabled" when she was inbetween her associate and bachelor’s degree.

Now, a few years later, she’s working at Clearwater Council of Government.

“I’m a social worker, and I help people like myself with developmental disabilities,” Weaver said. “I was born with cerebral palsy, I’ve had my disability all my life. I’m a full-time wheelchair user.”

While people with disabilities often face lower overall employment rates, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, that did not stop Weaver for pursuing what she wanted to do.

In fact, she said she geared up to help others follow their dreams as well.

“I hear people say sometimes, well, they’re unemployable or you know maybe this person can’t hold a job — I don’t believe that is true,” Weaver said. “I believe everybody has their own unique talent, skills and ability that they could bring to the table.”

Kevin Miller, director of Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, said on average, they help about 5,000 people per year find a job and retain it.

Miller said his experience with his own child has helped him understand and relate to other parents.

On average, he said people who are still working a year after they’ve placed them is 15% points higher than what the national average.

"Our job is to work with you, those counselors work with you to talk about what is it that you'd like to do, and I think what's important is to be realistic about what you can do,” Miller said. "We have robust partnerships with businesses, and we also have a great relationship with the private provider community out there that also understands that we all need to be rowing in the same direction."

"We’re very proud of you Kelsi," the governor’s words echoed into Kelsi’s ears at the State of the State address.

Some of her strengths are asking the tough questions, Weaver said, and making every day count.

She said focusing on strengths and not letting others dim your light is how you should move forward on fulfilling your dreams, even when after you get the job you want.

“Don’t be afraid to speak up with your employer if there isn’t an accommodation you need within the workplace,” Weaver said. “Follow your passion, talk with the people around you about what your strengths or if you really like something, if you really are passionate about something find out how you can turn that into a career and go for it.”