WHO HE IS: A classically trained vocalist from Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas
WHY WE FOLLOWED: We initially got hooked on a work-in-progress series of pencil sketches depicting a Chemex pour-over coffeemaker and a fresh cuppa. Then, in early April, he posted a video of himself singing while he was drawing. Turns out Tychiko is a rising star in the opera and art-song genres, with a raft of awards and competition prizes. He’s also a doctoral candidate at Arizona State University and, for good measure, an Amputee Coalition peer visitor and youth counselor. His Instagram feed is visually and aurally rich; his captions, while brief, often get us thinking.
FOLLOW AT: @tychiko (and please follow Amplitude at @livingwithamplitude)
IN HIS OWN WORDS: April 1, day one of Limb Loss Awareness Month: “As I’ve grown up and navigated being in this life, I’ve questioned so many things, from my music, my art, my sexuality, religion, so many things. I still question all this regularly. However, I don’t remember ever bringing into question why I am an amputee. I don’t remember ever asking my mom or dad why I was made this way. I realized quickly that the way I am has the potential to positively influence other people and their views of people around them. Regardless of your differences, you can be a person of influence and change in this world. Don’t get me wrong, being an amputee is not easy. However, it’s normal, it’s beautiful, and it’s okay.
Other Five-Star Amputee Instagram Feeds
@justin_oliver_davis: British Army vet turned globetrotting mountain climber
@nicolinalee: Nurse practitioner and Limb Kind Foundation motivational mentor
@just_the_one_leg: British workout warrior battling back from left below-knee amputation
@caitlin.andherlegnamed.rex: Model, activist, and CEO of Be More Adaptive
@jackthomas_: A one-man band: drums, bass, and guitar.
IMAGES: All images courtesy of Tychiko Cox.
