I belong here
I belong here
Damon Gilstrap overcomes adversities to chases his college dreams at 53 all while embodying unwavering dedication as a loving father to his son.
Time and time again, Damon Gilstrap has somehow defied the odds — and on multiple occasions, even death itself.
As a young child, Gilstrap endured the loss of his own mother to a drug overdose. As a teen, he was shot and stabbed several times. Then at age 35, he suffered a stroke and was diagnosed with three brain tumors. Doctors told Gilstrap he may never walk or talk again.
Through a combination of resilience, determination and personal inspiration, Gilstrap has faced these adversities and emerged even stronger.
The devoted father said he drew his strength to persevere from his three sons and his partner of recent years, Angela.
Gilstrap said he was especially inspired by his son, Jabril, who was born with autism, after seeing him successfully take classes at Syracuse University and Onondaga Community College.
At age 53, Gilstrap graduated from OCC in May, earning a social services degree and pair of top school and statewide honors for student excellence in the classroom while overcoming personal challenges.