Freshman Aiden Domski finds opportunity, hones abilities at Bemidji State

Mar. 16—BEMIDJI — As a freshman at

Bemidji State University,

Aiden Domski has found his niche for the next four years coinciding with a sense of independence moving into the distant future.

The Menahga native was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at 2 years old, which affects Domski's mobility. Despite this, he wants to prove that he's more than his disability.

"People don't have to let their disability define what they can do," Domski said. "I just want to let them know that they can do anything they put their mind to."

Domski has learned to adapt to the physical world throughout his life, which kick-started after a visit with his pediatrician in Park Rapids.

"Aiden came to us at 2 years of age because he wasn't walking properly. He couldn't stand easily, so (Park Rapids) referred him to Gillette Children's for the diagnosis of cerebral palsy," nurse practitioner Mindy Ostrowski said.

Ostrowski explained that cerebral palsy is indicative of damage to the developing brain that can affect muscle and bone development. As such, symptoms related to movement and posture can appear during infancy or early childhood.

Domski began physical therapy and ongoing treatments as he journeyed through his elementary and high school years. He was able to receive some treatments closer to home including Gillette Children's clinics in Bemidji and Baxter.

As he approached graduating from Nevis High School in 2023, Domski's next step was deciding where to attend college. With his future sister-in-law already attending BSU, such a decision came easy along with choosing his major of communication studies.

Moving into Linden Hall in August 2023, Domski's independence was on full display as his only accommodation was the larger living space that Linden provides via its suites. Such a space allows easier maneuvers when using his mobility scooter and wider hallways than the traditional freshman dorms of Tamarack or Oak Hall.

"Moving in was fairly easy. I had to figure out where I was going to live and they ended up moving me to Linden because it's a lot more accessible," Domski recalled. "I didn't need as many accommodations because I am more independent."

Soon after settling in, Domski knitted a group of friends and pursued pastimes that challenged his disability. Notably, he joined an on-campus club for rock climbing, making use of a rock wall in BSU's Gillett Wellness Center.

"It's so much fun and I love the challenge," Domski said. "I like to push myself because even though I have this limitation, I know I can do more and I push myself to do that."

Once he graduates Domski plans to use comedy and acting as a conduit to share his story, likely moving away from Bemidji to do so.

"I want to get myself out there and spread my message to anybody with disabilities like mine," Domski added. "Eventually, I'd like to spread my message worldwide. It's quite the journey, but I'm willing to do whatever it takes."

Domski credits his mom, Steph, as a crucial part of his support system in the span of his life.

"My mom is very supportive of my dreams," he said, "and she'll always say, 'Aiden, you've got this. I know you're determined enough to do what you want to do in the future.'"

Ostrowski also sang Steph's praises, noting that Steph places no limits on Domski. Similar to other patients, focusing on his abilities is threaded throughout all of the work Ostrowski has done while supporting Domski.

"These kiddos that have been successful at meeting their goals and making their dreams happen — whether it's attending a concert, sports, getting in a car and driving across the state to see something cool that they've always wanted to," Ostrowski said, "it's all about celebrating those abilities that they have."

Such a sentiment has weaved its way throughout Domski's experience as he wraps up his freshman year.

"I have a great group of friends that are very supportive of what I'm doing here. They've always encouraged me and pushed me to better myself," Domski left off. "This place is just filled with great people and great opportunities."

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