We had the good fortune of connecting with Vic Cruz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vic, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I am originally from Puerto Rico, born in a tiny village on the west side of the island. I moved to Orlando when I was around age 5 only knowing Spanish at the time. I basically taught myself English by watching Nickelodeon programming to be able to keep up in school and not be bullied. As a family we loved watching HBO comedy specials, so this really set the tone for my love of stand up and performing. This also helped provide me with a creative outlet when kids weren’t so kind and understanding of my foreign roots.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In my teenage years I was diagnosed with a rare degenerative eye disease called Retinitous Pigmentosa. There is no cure for this and basically the cones and rods in the back of the eye obtain no light, therefore, the “lights slowly go out” and you get progressively more blind as the years go by. I am really great at fooling the average person to the level of my disability, but I am currently at around 10% sight left. Therefore, I decided to tell my story through my comedy. Why cry when you can make others laugh. You can imagine the hilarity that ensues in navigating my daily life, so why not take those anecdotes and share them with others. My hope is that through this creative outlet I can help, inspire others that no matter what card you have been given, laughter is always the best medicine.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
A dinner out in Studio City at my favorite sushi spot Kiwami for some killer fresh rolls, followed by an evening concert in DTLA listening to the LA Phil Harmonic make music magic at the Disney Concert Hall.

A relaxing Saturday/Sunday Funday in the Marina del Rey/Venice area exploring the famous boardwalk, renting some bikes and crusing into Santa Monica, eating some calamari and taking in the sunset at The Whaler. Finishing the day down the street at Firestone Brewery for some craft beers and music or if you aren’t too full, having a traditional Italian meal at C&O’s famous trattoria (with endless garlic knots and wine).

A weekday breakfast at Bob’s famous diner in Burbank because you can’t go wrong with their eggs or burgers depending on your mood. Walk it off with a day at Universal Studios Hollywood watching movie magic.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My wife and my Mom are the two people in my life that I can attribute to my successes. My wife’s support and encouragement of my dreams keeps me going even when I might lose faith at times. My Mom raised me to pursue whatever makes me happy and that has always stuck with me.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viccruzofficial/

Image Credits
Natalie Pappas and Sandra Cruz

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