Music Has Legs

Based on the true story of Juan Manuel Pineda

By: David Haznaw, Marlene Byrne

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

Based on the true story of Juan Manuel Pineda, an orphan whose journey began on the streets of El Salvador and ended on a stage in Chicago. Juan was born into an impoverished family, with a severely cleft palate, in a country where children born with such conditions are commonly ostracized. As a young boy, he lost both his legs in a house fire. Soon after, his mother, who had raised him as a single parent, died after a long illness. Juan came to Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos, a home for orphaned and vulnerable children, where he not only received shelter, food and safety, but an education, unconditional love and an opportunity to let his musical talents bloom. After being accepted to Shriners Hospital in Chicago for treatment of his cleft palate, Juan’s musical talent was uncovered, and he would step into the spotlight to share his music and story with the world. “From tragedy to triumph, this remarkable story reminds us that all things are possible when we show love to each other.” Bishop Ron Hicks, Diocese of Joliet, IL