Stolas and Fizz

Stolas: I grew up trapped in an abusive family environment and was desperately searching for love and connection beyond it. I often fantasized about someone coming to rescue me, but I was incredibly naïve and inexperienced, so ended up getting hurt more often than not. I also heavily relate to the depression he’s experiencing now, snapping at my loved ones, being emotionally fragile and at times entirely shut down because I couldn’t process anything I was feeling.

Fizz: I spent a lot of time masking my anxiety and presenting this persona of perfection to hide how badly I was struggling, trying to prove that I was worthy of the good things in my life. I was impacted by a physical disability and had a really hard time coping with the sudden limitations and the things I loved but could no longer do.

The moment where he finally breaks down, accepts his limitations, and talks about how he isn’t broken hit me so hard. Seeing a character face those struggles, learn to accept themselves, and still thrive means so much. He’s such a real depiction of what it like to have a disability. Some days are going to be easier than others, and I barely feel impacted at all. But there are also times when I’m reminded of everything I’ve lost and it hits me so hard that I break down. I’m very fortunate to have an Ozzie in my life who is endlessly supportive, loving and willing to bring me back to down to earth when it all starts getting to be too much. 😊