Eastlake graduate inspires others

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) - Humberto "Tito" Rodriguez may be wheelchair-bound, but that doesn't slow him down a bit. In fact, he's moving at a faster pace than many of us. This high school senior, who's about to graduate from Eastlake High School, already has his associate's degree. While that's a huge accomplishment, what really makes Tito stand out to those who know him is his positive attitude, and zest for life.

It's been a big month for Tito. He was recently crowned prom king, placed first in the Special Olympics in the 100 meter, and as manager of the school's soccer team, he was honored by having a trophy named after him. Coach Gibby Widner says he's been an inspiration to the team, and gives them inspirational messages on game days.

Abel Loy, Tito's Personal Assistant at school, says Tito inspires him to do better. "When I am having a bad day, I look at him and realize if he can do what he does, I can do this. He's doing what nobody else can do. School, education, sports, associates...what can't he do," he asks.

Tito just thinks of himself as a typical guy. He likes to film youtube videos, and have fun with his friends.

At age 5, he was diagnosed with Duschenne Muscular Dystrophy. His mother, Patricia Rodriguez, said it was hard watching him go from running to sitting in a wheelchair, but says he's always moving forward. Now, he has plans to study journalism at NMSU, in his cousin Rosemary Montanez's footsteps. She works at KVIA, and says he would be a fabulous journalist, who would bring positivity to his coverage. His passion is sports, especially soccer. His mother and biggest fan, and he recently inspired her to go back to school. She graduated this May from UTEP, and he was there to congratulate her.

One of Tito's favorite pasttimes is making videos. His instagram page is Tito el chingon, if you'd like to become an official fan.

Good luck to you, Tito! Who knows, maybe one day we'll be co-workers!