Blind singer’s rendition of “Rise Up” moves Lionel Richie to tears

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American Idol

Shayy’s life dramatically changed last year when she started to experience blurry vision. The teen told her mom, but she naturally reassured her that it was probably nothing to worry about. Shayy considered the idea of getting glasses; that perhaps her eyes were merely strained because they were being overworked.

Sadly, her vision was a symptom of something more serious happening in her body.

YouTube /
American Idol

When Shayy visited her local ophthalmologist, she was told to head straight to the emergency room. Sadly, she would later be diagnosed with a brain tumor … one which eventually took her vision altogether.

Fighting spirit

Showing an abundance of courage, and the heart of a lion, Shayy didn’t give up on her dreams. Just one-year after her life-altering emergency, she performed for judges on American Idol. For her, it was a chance to show how determined she was to overcome any obstacle life throws at her … and boy did she take the chance with both hands.

For her performance, Shayy opted for Andra Day’s “Rise Up”, doing the song complete justice.

YouTube /
American Idol

It should go without saying that the judges were swept away by Shayy, her story, and her voice, but it was Lionel Richie who produced the most profound reaction.

“You have wrecked me,” he said, wiping tears away.

For the video of Shayy’s audition, watch below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwnCSNhf8A4

It’s precisely characters like Shayy who remind us that nothing is impossible in life. No mountain is too high, no river too wide, no ambition too great. With courage, determination, and the right attitude, a whole lot can be made of nothing.

We’re wishing Shayy all the very best in the future. Share this article if you loved her performance!

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