What is Adapt, Not Overcome?

Adapt, Not Overcome is a passion project - created by Caden Nelms, a college student with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Adapt, Not Overcome shares not only the powerful stories of the challenges disabled people face, but also the lessons they’ve learned along the way. 

The name Adapt, Not Overcome originated when Caden’s friend, Tyler Goins, wanted to do his senior capstone project on disabled individuals in the film industry and asked Caden if he would be the subject of a documentary. During a preliminary interview, Caden said the words “I choose to say that I adapt, not overcome".

The term “overcome” means to “succeed in dealing with a problem or difficulty.” However, disabled people do not simply stop being disabled or “succeed”. In reality, disabled individuals adapt to their disabilities and learn to adapt to a world that’s not meant for them.

The ultimate goal of Adapt, Not Overcome, and Caden, is to spread awareness, inclusiveness, love, and kindness through podcasts, blogs, stage shows, and speaking engagements.

Who is

Caden Nelms?

Caden Nelms (He/Him) is a 21-year-old disabled college student with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Caden was born in Georgia and currently still lives there. Four days after his second birthday, Caden was officially diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type II.

Caden’s life has been anything but easy. Growing up in a small town while being in a wheelchair means that you are noticed, and in return, treated differently. This is why Caden often talks about being “Hypervisibly Invisible” - when you are seen by everyone in an elevated way, yet feel like no one sees you for who you are or treats you differently.

Caden took time during 2020 to slow down and listen to his body, as well as took time to accept himself and his disability. He always knew he had his disability, but never took time to fully accept himself for who he is. Now, Caden loves everything about himself and loves advocating!