
Meet Tequoia O’Neal, a deaf artist and advocate and to many, a true superhero. She has managed to turn life’s challenges into triumphs, inspiring others through her resilience and determination.

Overcoming Life’s Challenges: The Story of Tequoia O’Neal
Tequoia (endearingly known as “Tee”) O’Neal’s life began as typically as that of any healthy baby. However, at just two months old, she contracted bacterial meningitis. This resulted in the loss of her hearing and presented a unique world to navigate as she grew up.
“It is/was interesting shaping my life around (deafness),” said Tequioa. “I grew up like a normal woman, but going to Vicksburg High was not without its challenges, if I’m being honest. As a deaf adult, I just try to do things like everyone else.”
Words from a Friend: Kacey Foster Filiptsov
One of Tequoia’s high school friends whom she has stayed in contact with over the years, Kacey Foster Filiptsov, holds Tequoia in high regard for all she has accomplished and overcome.
“Describing Tequoia feels monumental,” Kacey began. “Not because I can’t find the words, but because so many come to mind. She has a beautiful soul, resilient and enduring, overcoming life’s obstacles in remarkable ways. It’s impossible to hear her story and not be inspired, but it’s her friendship and caring nature that has truly touched me time and again.”
Despite the physical distance between them, Kacey attested to the strength and value of Tequoia’s friendship.”Living abroad for nearly a decade,” Kacey began, “It’s been difficult to maintain connections with friends and family back home. Tequoia is one of the few friends who consistently reaches out and puts effort into our friendship: writing just to check in or chat about our last crochet projects on a random weekday.”
Kacey shared that this seemingly small gesture means the world to her. “Maybe it seems to be a small thing, but it makes me feel remembered and cared for, and isn’t that just a wonderful thing?”
“I feel privileged to call her my friend and am very thankful that she considers me so.”
The Struggles of High School and Pursuing Her Dreams
Tequoia faced significant adversity in high school, living in a world not designed for those with unique challenges like her own. Despite these setbacks and the inevitable obstacles of being deaf in a world built for sound, Tequoia persevered, relentlessly pursuing her dreams and desires.

Tequoia dreamed she could be a cheerleader, so she pursued her passion and turned dream into reality. “I was a VHS basketball cheerleader for one year. That was an interesting journey. I had some cheerleading experience thanks to the deaf school so I thought I would give it another try and to my surprise, I made the team!” Tequoia added on, “It was an interesting year and wonderful to cheer the school on!”
Tequoia attended a school for the deaf in Jackson for eight years. She then spent four years at Vicksburg High School, graduating with her class in 2010. Today, she continues to strive for greatness through her kindness and creative passions, such as crocheting, a craft she has cherished for over 20 years.


Overcoming a Setback: Surviving Two Strokes
Nine years ago, on Valentine’s Day, Tequoia suffered two strokes at just 23 years old. It was a significant setback for her.. “The strokes affect me… not much physically, except I have a tremor in my right hand that only appears when I’m tired, stressed, or anxious,” she explained. “I do have trouble remembering some things… Let’s say on a good day, I (remember) about 80-90 percent, on a bad day about 70-75 percent.”
Five months after her second stroke, Tequoia decided it was time to return to her passion for crocheting, though she had to re-learn it. “My mom suggested that I pick it back up to help with my rehab. It was awkard to learn at first. Heck, I have a pink blanket that I gave to my grandma and it has five corners, but she still loves it,” she laughed. Since relearning to crochet, Tequoia has stuck with it and become even more well-versed in her craft than ever.

Tequoia’s family is very proud of all she has overcome and achieved
Tequoia’s mother was thrilled to discover that her daughter was nominated as a local superhero. She said that she would love to speak on the achievements of her daughter however, she was unable to add quotation at this time. She mentioned that Tequoia’s grandmother would be very proud of her and have wonderful things to say as well.
A relative of Tequoia, Keke O’Neal, said of her, “(Tequoia) is a very nice and loving person… very creative and patient.” Tequoia’s loving nature is a testament to her heroism. Sometimes the impression one leaves on those around them is all it takes to change the world for the better.
The Heart of Tequoia O’Neal: A Role Model for the Deaf Community
Tequoia’s journey stands as a powerful testament to resilience, determination and the impact of unwavering kindness. From navigating the challenges of deafness to overcoming the physical and emotional trials of her strokes, she has turned every setback into a stepping stone for growth and inspiration
“I just want to inspire to someone to do anything despite their deafness…” said Tequoia. “…To do anything they want to do and achieve it. I want someone to look at me and tell their deaf children that they could do whatever they want. That’s all I want.”

Her words resonate beyond the deaf community, serving as a universal reminder of the strength found in perseverance and self-belief. Through her actions, creativity and relentless optimism, Tequoia O’Neal has proven that life’s obstacles are not barriers but opportunities to inspire others and redefine what’s possible.
That’s what makes Tequoia Chevon Renee O’Neal: a superhero!
About The Author
