Ms. Denedria Banks, founder of Gem Communications, was born with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Syndrome, an inherited, degenerative peripheral nerve disorder that causes muscle weakness and atrophy in the feet, legs, hands, and forearms. Diagnosed at the age of nine, she has watched her body and physical function deteriorate over the years but has maintained that she would not allow her disease to control her life. In 2002, Denedria suffered from a left hip fracture, making her ask the question, "Why me?” Although unsettling, she found her answer in a follow-up question, "Why not me?" Embracing that concept, she discovered her today did not have to equal her tomorrow.

While recovering, Denedria realized that she wanted to educate and motivate people on living/working with persons with a chronic illness. Leading by example and speaking from personal experience, Denedria enjoys making presentations to various groups of all ages.

Ms. Denedria Banks has a bachelor’s degree in Child Development from California State University, Northridge and has a Master’s degree in Social Work from California State University, Sacramento. She has worked in the area of social services for ten years.  In September of 2005, Ms. Banks authored her memoirs, entitled, Melodies of My Life, a funny and inspirational journey about facing life with a debilitating disease.  In 2007, Ms. Banks produced and host, Relate & Communicate, an internet talk radio show, exploring issues on disabilities. In 2008, Denedria was listed as a voice over talent with  www.voice123.com.

Ms. Denedria Banks has been highlighted in Quest (volume 11, No.6; volume 13, No. 6), JSNMA (volume 12, No.4), Aurora (spring/summer 2006), OPTIONS newsletter (2006), and Daily Sundial