Empower Kaylah's BPA Dream in Florida!

Hello everyone!

My name is Kaylah! I’m currently a senior with my sister Kirah at West Carrollton High School. Throughout my time in high school, I’ve always tried to be involved in as many extracurriculars as I can be. In 2023, I joined Business Professionals of America. Somehow, with a few awesome trainers and a whole lot of luck, I competed in the 2024 National Leadership Conference. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. This year I got the amazing opportunity to repeat my experiences, but this I need some help.

You see, everyone who competes in BPA has a unique story. My story is no different! In 2009, I was diagnosed with a little something called cerebral palsy. My CP has left me with the inability to walk, and have other physical difficulties such as transferring, difficulty with complex movements, among other problems. Even though CP has altered my life, it hasn’t really stopped me. I’m currently on track to graduate with honors alongside my sister this May. In the fall, I’m attending Wright State University for college, and plan to even obtain to get my first job! My greatest accomplishment so far though has been with BPA. When I first competed in 2024, I was the only child with a physical disability to compete in my region, at the state-level I competed with two other people with a disability, and at Nationals I was the only competitor in a wheelchair. Although this is fabulous, my journey is only what it is because of those who’ve helped me along the way, my mom, my sister, my grandma and my aunt.

On top of my problems and accomplishments, my own family has their own unique set of circumstances. In June of 2022, my dad was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. This has impacted his body and brain very heavily. His disability has left him unable to do a lot of the things he used to do. Luckily for me, my mom is the most amazing woman in the world. After my dad received his diagnosis, my mom had to leave her job to become a full-time caregiver for the two of us until she could find a position to accommodate all our needs. She was very fortunate in her previous position to have been able to save some money to get us by. She dresses me, helps with my daily hyenine and even helps me feel like every other girl by does my hair and makeup. She picks me up from school, and accommodates every other thing I need I have, rather it be PT and OT or the extracurricular events I participate in including but not limited to the volunteer work I have committed to by being president of the Nation Honor Society within West Carrollton Schools. In summary, my mom is an absolute superhero! In my book, superheroes always have the most complex stories, just like my mom. In 2011, my mom had a major spinal procedure. They replaced her vertebrae and fused her spine from her T10 to her sacrum, pretty much her whole lower back. Her injury has left her unable to lift heavy objects, move easily, and other problems. However, my mom has always refused to let those obstacles get in her way. She currently works a full time third shift at Kroger and part time with Newcomer Funeral home, however supporting a family of four isn't easy and all of her money goes to paying the bills.

Throughout my time with BPA, my mom has been a fierce helper and advocate at getting me what I need. This year BPA Nationals is in Orlando, Florida. BPA has made sure to provide an accommodating room, and a budget for food. However, because West Carrollton High School has so many competitors, they are unable to provide me with the necessary transportation I need. The standard vehicle is a transit van, which is what West Carrollton had selected. Unfortunately, neither myself nor my mom can safely transfer me into this van. We consulted with my OT, PT and doctor and they conclude that even my mom and sister could get me in, it's not a safe way for me to travel. Did I mention that my wonderful sister Kirah is coming along to help me and my mom on my trip? Which is an additional cost my family has to pay because the school cannot provide aides, but even she cannot transfer me in and out of this van. I’ve created this GoFundMe to help cover the costs of a vehicle and expenses, so that I can easily use to navigate Florida with my peers. In addition to the van, the itinerary that our teacher has prepared and mandated. Like a day at the beach, a day at Disney Springs and several dinners, your generosity will help contribute to all of these events any other assisted device I may need such as a water wheelchair for the beach to make this a success. I really hope that you consider helping me with my journey in BPA.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story!