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24-year-old accomplishing dreams despite hardship
FOX 13's Mark Wilson highlights 24-year-old Max Sterns, who suffered a stroke when he was born and has mild cerebral palsy and mild autism but is now training to bring his dream to life in What's Right with Tampa Bay.
TAMPA, Fla. - At just 24 years old, Max Sterns has already faced more than his fair share of obstacles. But now, he is training to bring his dream to life.
"I'm just trying to become a mascot," said Max. "That's all I'm trying to do."
The 24-year-old suffered a stroke when he was born and has mild cerebral palsy and mild autism.
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"We didn't know we were going to get with Max," said Jeff Sterns, Max's dad. "He didn't walk or say a word until he was five years old and there was a lot of doctors and said, 'Hey, just leave him in a wheelchair. Don't bother trying.'"
But, they did try – and look at him now.
Max's dream is to become a mascot, and he chose "Roscoe" the Panther as his character.
"This is something that I want to do," said Max. "And my whole life, I've been looking for something that I've been wanting to really just make something out of my life. I love making people happy, and I love to entertain."
Jeff said that his journey has been nothing short of incredible.
"Max likes to illustrate to other kids that might have some special needs or some issues that they're not necessarily stuck," said Jeff. "They can get out. They can do some things. They could be ambitious. They can chase dreams. They can chase goals."
Matt's journey towards becoming Roscoe has brought new meaning to his life, giving him a sense of purpose and joy.
"I would say that the story that Roscoe is trying to leave people with is to just treat people nice and kind and, like, be happy, because no matter what it's going to be okay," Max explained.
Max's determination has already touched many lives, and he's inspiring others to reach for their own dreams too.
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"I'm a very happy person. I'm very sweet. Very kind. I like making lifelong memories for people," Max said.
Max said the Tampa Bay Lightning mascot, Thunderbug, is his idol. If you would like to contact Max to use him as your mascot for something, email sternsboys@gmail.com or (727) 455-7289.
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