Daniel Maya was born to be a fighter.

Born 16 weeks early, he weighed just 621 grams.

His wellness journey began that day.

Doctors said he would be blind, and never walk.

But no one told Daniel that.

Buoyed by support from his parents and sister, and many others — including eye doctors and occupational, speech and physical therapists — he survived.

And thrived.

At Staples High School he ran cross country, and competed in indoor and outdoor track. He graduated in 2017.

That was only the start.

Daniel ran 4 marathons. He got his undergraduate degree in human services from Beacon College; now he’s pursuing a master’s through the University of Vermont. It’s in his passion: physical activity and wellness science.

Triumphant Daniel Maya, after the New York City Marathon.

He earned Red Cross certification as a lifeguard and water safety instructor. He’s also a certified personal trainer, with master certification in adaptive special needs.

He works with special needs children and adults. Most satisfying, he says, is training and mentoring autistic young adults, as well as helping young adults with disabilities perform aquatic exercises.

This summer, he taught a boy with cerebral palsy how to swim.

Oh, yeah: Daniel also serves on Westport’s Commission on People with Disabilities.

He recently helped start a social club for people between the ages of 18 and 30. They meet for lunch or dinner, and take walks around Compo Beach and Longshore.

He is grateful for all that he has — including his vision. (One eye is better than the other.)

He never had a mindset of “I can’t do this,” he says. It’s always been, “I can do it!”

Daniel’s athletic career began early, accompanying his mother on runs throughout Westport.

Running in the rain …

It was work. But as he got faster, he enjoyed it more. Training for Staples — and then for 5 and 10Ks, half-marathons and marathons (including New York City)  — were a satisfying break from school (and life).

Running remains a way to stay in shape, and “clear my head.”

Looking ahead, Daniel will continue to pursue a personal training career, especially with adaptive special needs.

He has a message for “06880” readers.

“If there is anything I can do to help support an exercise and wellness program for children and adults with special needs, please reach out to me at WestportFitness.com. I look forward to helping everyone get fit and healthy.”

… and better weather.

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