Earlier Reports
Oct 07
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Ms. Wheelchair Nebraska 2008
October Report

I am celebrating my new achievement in life in being elected Ms. Wheelchair Nebraska. I was busy bright and early Monday, October 15th going to my children's school. With crown and sash I spoke at the Stolley Park Elementary School to the first grade and fifth grade classes. I shared the details of the pageant and some of the questions the judges asked me. The first graders were in awe at Kelsey's mom having a crown and a title. They listened intently as I shared what the mission of Ms. Wheelchair Nebraska is all about and I must have shared enough interesting information because they didn't have any questions. I correct myself; one little girl, a friend of my daughter's asked if she could go to Washington D.C. with Kelsey in July. The fifth grade class asked questions about when I had to start using a wheelchair and why. I was glad that they felt comfortable to ask because they have been students with my son for six years and never asked before. They asked how I became Ms Wheelchair Nebraska, and what I do now. It was exciting for me to share with them the details and encourage them to share the opportunity with other women they know that use a wheelchair. I had a wonderful time and felt so proud of the response I received from the kids. Ms. Wheelchair Nebraska was not a title they were familiar with before and know they are excited to share what they learned with others.   Wednesday, October 24th I attended the Open House for Blessed Sacrament Catholic Youth Education Classes where I teach third grade. I shared my pictures of the pageant and my experience with students, parents, and church staff. I spoke to grades third and eight. I shared that life is a journey and that in our experiences we find faith when things are not easy. For many people they don't develop a relationship or an understanding of God until we experience times of struggle and pain. For me, I had grown in my struggles to learn that as I am is right where I am supposed to be. Being in a wheelchair is not a failure as some young people view it. For me it helped me to learn who I really am and what my true passion and goals in life are. I am proud of all that I have accomplished and I am not angry or ready to quit because life has delivered me a challenge. I am more determined to advocate to others that this life change is a new beginning for me and I am motivated to embrace it and make a difference.