When Lauren “Lolo” Spencer was diagnosed with ALS at 14, she made a vow. She would embrace life wholeheartedly and with courage. And that is exactly what she has done. Today, more than 20-plus years later, she is a Film Independent Spirit Award-nominated actress, disability advocate, lifestyle content creator and public speaker. Her message is simple: No matter what life throws at you—disability or not—you can succeed in everything you do. In this inspiring talk, Lolo shares her life story and how she has managed to succeed and, more importantly, find happiness each day despite what life has thrown at her. She reminds us all—disabled or not—that joy is a choice and that life is meant to be lived to the fullest. You’ll be inspired to embrace every moment, chase your dreams and never let anything hold you back.

For Lauren “Lolo” Spencer, a passionate advocate for disabled representation, being disabled doesn’t need to limit you. You can live a full, independent life on your own terms. In this warm, humorous and honest talk, Lauren provides a candid and real inside look into the life of being a person with a disability and challenges stereotypes and misconceptions of the disabled—emphasizing that individuals with disabilities engage in all aspects of life—fashion, relationships, sex, careers and independence—just like everyone else. “People with disabilities can live their lives as fly and fashionable as anyone else,” Lolo said in an interview with CNN. Whether you live with a disability or not, this talk will leave you thinking, feeling and ready to be part of a more accepting and accessible future.

In this profoundly moving and empowering keynote, actress, influencer, and disability rights advocate Lolo Spencer shares how her journey with ALS began not in isolation but with the fierce and unwavering advocacy of her mother. At just 14 years old, Lolo was diagnosed with ALS and given five years to live. The news was devastating. Lolo’s mother stepped in, asking the hard questions and demanding the care and attention her daughter deserved as they navigated this sudden change during her formative high school years. That foundation of love and support helped Lolo become the strong leader and passionate advocate she is today. Drawing from her inspirational journey, Lolo highlights how our mentors and personal support systems—whether they’re family members, teachers, caregivers, or friends—don’t just help us survive; they help us thrive. With authenticity and humor, she shares a powerful message about how we can become unstoppable when we are seen, supported, and celebrated.