#finding dory coosplay

[cosplayinamerica]

Dory from Finding Nemo / Cosplayer: @mooniewarriorcosplay / Photographer: @deaththeasian / Convention: D23 2022

Dory has always been an impactful character and role model in my life. With being born autistic, it was difficult growing up and felt different from others around me. I was so silent and had a lot of trouble communicating or socializing with my classmates and was always put down cause I couldn't do or think the same as everyone else. As an adult, I was diagnosed with multiple anxiety disorders which made everyday a struggle to get through. Sometimes I would wake up so scared of what could happen and had that never ending feeling of constant fear, anxiousness, and being alone.

Going through everything, I never had a character that I could look up to or who would help me feel like I wasn't the only one out there going through the same things as me. It was then till I watched Finding Nemo and saw Dory for the first time that I felt a connection so strong and true.

Seeing her beautiful journey made my eyes wide open to what a world can be like with not letting any mental illnesses stop you in your tracks. And that you can do anything in your own unique way. And that you can be your authentic self no matter what. And most importantly that you can "just keep swimming". I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for her and it makes my heart so full to see other relatable characters follow suit, showing all of us that no one is alone in this world and to never stop believing in all that you are.

The most precious gift [cosplay] gave me was a voice. A voice that I thought I would never have. Though born autistic and had some difficulties with my logical side of my brain, my creative side went into maximum overdrive and would always think and do things creatively to solve any problem or do anything I wanted to do.

Our journey will always take us down different paths. And each step of the way will have different challenges we must face in order to get to where we need to be. 

11 years ago, I never thought I was good with what I made and had a lot of doubts about whether I would get to where the artists that inspired me to start in the first place and be just as amazing as them. But then I realized that I was only comparing myself to others not for what my own worth as an artist is. And that I was gonna let that stop me from continuing to learn the things I needed to learn for myself and grow as my own artist. 

That was the moment I let all that fear fade away and start to sew, build, and do things in my way. It was then that I started to love myself unconditionally for the artist I was becoming and going to be. Now I strive everyday to tackle new challenges and try skills that maybe sometimes scare the wits out of me. But seeing the beautiful progression, going on this journey, and seeing how far I've come makes it all worthwhile in the end. 

We all have different ways of doing things and that should never stop us from pursuing what we want to do in the cosplay world and in our lives too. Never quit and never give up. Everyone starts from somewhere and where it will take us going forward is a wonderful journey to behold.