SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. - Each week Gary Ferrer offers free Ballet Folklorico dance lessons in his community. Folklorico is composed of ballet steps and musical pieces reflecting various regions and folk music genres of Mexico. It’s an art very dear to Ferrer.

"My mission is to teach my students that our culture is very beautiful and to be proud of who we are," Ferrer said.  

As Ferrer leads his students, staring straight ahead and keeping the beat, he’s also keeping a secret; none of his students know that he is visually impaired.  

The longtime dancer, fitness instructor, and fashion photographer, he lost his sight following a battle with meningitis in 2016. 

Apart from his inner circle, he has kept his eye condition private-until now.

"When you’re close to me and there is a white wall or something white I can see the contrast, but it’s blurry and shadows," Ferrer said. 

Even though he has his hardships, Ferrer hasn’t let his condition stand in the way of doing what he loves. 

"Dancing and teaching is my passion," he said. 

Hopeful his sight will continue to improve, Ferrer wants to one day resume photography and take portraits of his costumed dancers.